Ancient Invaders: Prehistoric Animals Reimagined as Invasive Species in Modern Ecosystems

Theoretically, several prehistoric species could become invasive if they were somehow brought back to life and introduced into today's ecosystems. Here are four potential candidates: 1. Dodo (Raphus cucullatus): Although Dodo has been extinct for centuries, had it survived, it could potentially become an invasive species because of its generalist diet, which comprised fruit, nuts, seeds, bulbs, and possibly crabs and shellfish. 2. Small Theropod Dinosaurs (like Velociraptors): Due to their fast breeding rates, generalist diets, and adaptable nature, small predatory theropods, if reintroduced, could potentially disrupt local ecosystems. 3. Procoptodon (Short-faced kangaroos): These kangaroos were generalists and could potentially become overpopulated in today's environments due to the lack of natural predators. 4. Megalania (Varanus priscus): This enormous monitor lizard, believed to have been a generalist carnivore, could potentially become invasive due to its large size and lack of natural predators. However, it's important to note that these are only hypothetical scenarios, as we can't accurately predict how extinct species would interact with today's ecosystems. It's also worth noting that bringing back extinct species presents various ethical and ecological issues.