What is the primary issue with rabbits introduced to Australia?

The primary issue with rabbits introduced to Australia is that they exemplify the high biotic potential of some introduced species. When rabbits were brought to Australia, they thrived in the new environment due to their reproductive capabilities, which allowed their population to explode rapidly. This led to significant ecological consequences, including competition with native species for resources, destruction of vegetation, and severe impacts on the agriculture sector. The ability of rabbits to reproduce quickly and adapt to various environments illustrates how invasive species can disrupt local ecosystems and highlight the challenges of managing introduced species.

While the evolution of new species or interactions with native marsupials are interesting considerations, they do not capture the immediate ecological and agricultural impacts resulting from the overwhelming presence of the rabbits. Additionally, although diseases like lethal viruses have been introduced over time to manage rabbit populations, they were not the primary issue when considering the initial introduction. Therefore, understanding the significance of biotic potential is crucial for addressing the challenges posed by invasive species in ecosystems.