What is the term for an alien species that has increased rapidly in number and negatively impacts the environment and native species?

The term "invasive species" refers specifically to non-native organisms that establish themselves in a new environment and proliferate to the point that they disrupt local ecosystems. These species often outcompete native flora and fauna for resources such as food and habitat, leading to negative ecological impacts. Invasive species can alter the dynamics of the ecosystem, reduce biodiversity, and in some cases, lead to the extinction of native species.

In contrast, endemic species are those that are unique to a specific geographic location and are not found anywhere else, making them part of the natural biodiversity of that particular area. Threatened species are those at risk of extinction, but this term does not inherently imply rapid population increases or negative ecological impact. Exotic species can refer to non-native species introduced to an environment, but they do not necessarily become invasive unless they begin to proliferate aggressively and harm local ecosystems. Thus, "invasive species" is the most accurate term for describing organisms that disrupt their new environments through rapid growth and adverse effects on native species.