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IB Biology HL 4.1.13 Invasive species and ecosystem management Question Bank

Practise IB Biology HL 4.1.13 by analysing how invasive species affect ecosystems and how management decisions are evaluated.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Analyse impacts of invasive species using named ecosystem examples.
  • Evaluate biological control and other management strategies, including their risks.

C4.1.13—Endemic vs. invasive species question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

The prickly pear cactus (Opuntia stricta) was first recorded in Kruger National Park, South Africa, in 1950 . It spread rapidly, mainly through seeds being dispersed by baboons and elephants.

In 1997, the cactus moth (Cactoblastis cactorum) from South America was introduced into the area as a biological control. The larvae of the moth feed on the cactus. The graph shows the number of cladodes (flattened stem sections) of cactus found per m2\mathrm{m}^{2} in the years before and after the introduction of the cactus moth.

Figure for Question C4.1.13—Endemic vs. invasive species question 1 — IB Biology HL

Outline how the prickly pear cactus may become an ecological problem in Kruger National Park.

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