Natives vs. Non-Natives
Photo Credit: Mikaela Mohr, Franklin SWCD
Native species are naturally occurring to the area where they are found. As a result, they are well adapted to that particular area. Non-native species are the opposite - they are not naturally occurring and therefore not well adapted to that area. Native species are better able to thrive and provide more intrinsic value to that ecosystem than non-native species. The other organisms, including other plants, animals, and insects of that ecosystem are adapted to those native species and rely upon them for their survival. As a result, it is imperative that native species are preserved for the benefit of the entire ecosystem and all its organisms.