Native vs Introduced Species
Unit 9 · Week 3 · Classification and Ecosystem Impact
Ngā Whāinga Akoranga · Learning Intentions
- Distinguish between native, endemic, introduced, and naturalised species
- Classify species observed during Week 3 field surveys into the correct category
- Describe the potential ecological impacts of introduced species on native ecosystems
- Connect species classification to kaitiakitanga responsibilities as environmental stewards
Paearu Angitu · Success Criteria
- I can correctly define all four species categories (native, endemic, introduced, naturalised)
- I can classify at least six species from my field survey into the correct category
- I can describe one specific mechanism by which an introduced species affects a native species
- I can explain the connection between biodiversity and kaitiakitanga
Hononga Marautanga · Curriculum Alignment
Investigate the interdependence of living things in an ecosystem; understand how introduced species can disrupt ecological balance and reduce biodiversity.
Appreciate that science is a human endeavour influenced by cultural and societal contexts; understand the role of classification in making sense of biodiversity.
Ngā Whakamārama · Key Definitions
Species that arrived in NZ naturally (before human arrival), without human help. Not found exclusively in NZ.
Example: tūī, kiekie, longfin eel
Species found only in NZ — evolved here and exists nowhere else naturally.
Example: kiwi, kakapo, tuatara, pōhutukawa
Species brought to NZ by humans (intentionally or accidentally), from another country.
Example: stoat, possum, gorse, blackbird
Introduced species that now reproduces and survives in the wild without human help.
Example: blackbird, clover, dandelion
Introduced species that spreads aggressively and causes harm to native species or ecosystems.
Example: possums, wilding pines, didymo
Use iNaturalist, DOC species pages, or Te Ara to check status. When unsure, mark as "?" and check with your teacher.
Whakarōpūtanga · Species Classification Table
Use your biodiversity survey data. Classify each species you observed. Aim for at least 8 species.
| Species name | Te reo Māori name | Status (native/endemic/introduced/naturalised) |
Where observed | Ecological role or impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Summary count: Native/endemic: ___ Introduced/naturalised: ___ Native ratio: ___%
Arotake Pānga · Impact Analysis
Choose one introduced species from your table and analyse its ecological impact.
Species chosen:
✅ Any positive impacts on ecosystem (if any)
❌ Negative impacts on native species / ecosystem
Describe the specific mechanism of harm (e.g. predation, competition, disease, habitat modification):
Whakaaro Hoki · Reflection
1. If you had to remove one introduced species from your survey site to improve ecosystem health, which would you choose and why?
2. Some introduced species have become culturally significant to communities in Aotearoa (e.g. the blackbird's song, clover in pastures). Does this change how we should think about them? Why or why not?
3. How does the native/introduced ratio you found at your survey site compare to what you would expect in a healthy NZ ecosystem? What does this tell you about the health of this place?
Aronga Mātauranga Māori
In te ao Māori, native species are not just ecological categories — they are whanaunga (relatives). The kiwi, the tūī, the kahikatea are part of whakapapa; their decline is a diminishment of the relational web that connects people to place. The names themselves carry this relationship: kaitiakitanga means guardianship of these connections, not just management of biodiversity metrics.
Many hapū have detailed mātauranga about specific species — their seasonal behaviour, their ecological roles, their cultural significance. This knowledge is often more granular and place-specific than anything in a DOC species profile. Restoration projects that partner with iwi draw on this depth to achieve better ecological outcomes.
Ngā Rauemi Tautoko · Support Materials
Resources already provided:
- Week 3 Biodiversity Survey Sheets — bring your field observations
- iNaturalist NZ species identification (on class devices or student phones)
- DOC native species reference cards (at each table)
- Unit 9 glossary — ecological terms (distributed Week 1)
Aronga Rerekē · Differentiated Pathways
Tīmata · Entry Level
Complete definitions for native, endemic, and introduced only. Classify five species. Choose one introduced species and list two negative impacts. Answer reflection question 1 only.
Paerewa · On Level
Complete all definitions. Classify eight species. Complete the full impact analysis for one species. Answer all three reflection questions.
Tūāpae · Extension
Complete all sections. Extension: Research one specific NZ iwi-led pest control or restoration project. What species are they targeting? What methods are they using? How does their approach integrate mātauranga Māori alongside Western ecological science? Write a 150-word summary.