How can invasive insect species affect native plants?

Invasive insect species can significantly impact native plants by outcompeting them and diminishing local plant populations. When invasive species are introduced to a new environment, they often lack natural predators or controls that would normally keep their populations in check. This can lead to an increase in their numbers, allowing them to dominate resources such as nutrients, water, and light, which are also essential for native plants. As these invasive insects flourish, they can alter the ecosystem, leading to reduced survival rates and reproduction of native plant species. This disruption can result in a decline of biodiversity within the ecosystem, as native plants struggle to thrive amid the pressure exerted by these invasive species. Thus, the correct answer highlights the detrimental effects that invasive insects can have on local flora.