Learning English

Nature destroying nature

Invasive animals and plants are a danger to biodiversity and ecosystems across the world.

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The story  

Non-native animals and plants are destroying biodiversity and ecosystems across the world.

A major scientific report says mosquitos are spreading dengue and yellow fever, and rats and snakes are killing seabird populations.

Invasive species are those that have come from a different environment accidentally and cause damage.

They often arrive via ships, planes and tourists.

Key words and phrases

repelled
forced away

• My new jacket repels water – it's waterproof.
• Some animals have spiky skin that repels predators.

high-stakes
high risk

• IELTS is a high-stakes test. You'll have to pay to do it again if you fail.
• I played poker last night. It was a high-stakes game with a lot of money at risk.

running rife
uncontrolled

• The kids ran rife at the party. They were out of control.
• Criminals run rife in this area. Be careful.

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