5. Introduced Species

(Sarah couldn't get me into focus)

 Definition: An introduced species is a species that is not native to a particular environment. These plants live in an area outside it's original range due to intentional or accidental human activity. 

What the specimen is: This is called a Jacaranda Tree. It's scientific name is  Jacaranda mimosifolia. 

Where we found it: Similar to the pine cone, we found this on the campus of West LA college. Several of the students thought it was pretty weird that Sarah was taking pictures that weren't selfies. 

How it relates to Introduced Species: Jacaranda trees are native to South America. However, in the late 1800s, the trees were imported into South Africa as decorations from north-western Argentina. So many trees were introduced to South Africa that the city of Pretoria is now nicknamed "Jacaranda City". These trees are considered an invasive problem since they use up resources like soil nutrients instead of native plants.