An exotic species is defined as:

• A. A species not native to the area (e.g. Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito)
• B. A domesticated species used in agriculture
• C. A species introduced but not established
• D. A species native to the area

Answer: (A)

An exotic species is one that is not native to the area. It originated elsewhere and was introduced into this region, often through human activity. The Asian tiger mosquito is a common example: it came from another part of the world but has established populations in new areas, which can affect disease transmission and control strategies. This concept focuses on origin, not whether the species is domesticated or whether it has successfully established after introduction. A domesticated agricultural species is defined by domestic use, not geography; a species introduced but not established describes a temporary non-native presence and isn’t the defining idea of “exotic”; and a native species is, by contrast, part of the local ecosystem.