What directly contributes to a pest's ability to thrive in an ecosystem?

The ability of a pest to thrive in an ecosystem is primarily influenced by environmental factors. These factors encompass a wide range of elements, including climate, habitat availability, moisture levels, and the presence of natural enemies or predators. Each of these elements plays a significant role in determining how well a pest can establish itself, reproduce, and sustain its population.

For instance, temperature and humidity can greatly affect pest life cycles and behaviors, either facilitating or hindering their growth. Moreover, the availability of suitable habitats is crucial; pests will flourish in environments that provide ample resources such as food and shelter. Additionally, environmental pressures from competition, predation, and other ecological dynamics further shape the survival and proliferation of pest populations.

While aspects like natural selection, food competition, and geographic location certainly influence pest populations, they do so within the context of the broader environmental factors. Thus, environmental factors are fundamental to understanding the dynamics of pest survival and success in various ecosystems.