Which of the following best explains why the cane toad has been so successful as an invasive species in Australia?

• A. Cane toads are native to Australia and have co-evolved with local species.
• B. Cane toads require highly specialized habitats that are rare in Australia.
• C. Cane toads have few natural predators in Australia and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions.
• D. Cane toads are unable to reproduce rapidly in the Australian environment.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of invasive species: Invasive species are organisms introduced to a new environment where they are not native. They often thrive because they face fewer natural predators, competitors, or diseases compared to their native habitat.
2. Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each statement to determine which aligns with the characteristics of successful invasive species. For example, species that can reproduce rapidly, tolerate diverse conditions, and lack natural predators are more likely to succeed.
3. Focus on the correct answer: The statement 'Cane toads have few natural predators in Australia and can tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions' highlights two key traits of successful invasive species—lack of predators and adaptability to various environments.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: For example, 'Cane toads are native to Australia' is incorrect because they are not native; they were introduced. Similarly, 'Cane toads require highly specialized habitats' contradicts their adaptability, and 'Cane toads are unable to reproduce rapidly' is not true as they reproduce effectively in the Australian environment.
5. Conclude with the biological reasoning: Cane toads thrive in Australia because their adaptability allows them to exploit various habitats, and the absence of natural predators reduces population control, enabling them to spread rapidly and dominate ecosystems.