Invasion ecology is a branch of ecology that focuses on the study of invasive species, which are non-native organisms that have been introduced to a new environment and have the potential to cause harm to native species, ecosystems, and human activities. This field of study examines the mechanisms by which invasive species establish and spread in new environments, as well as the ecological, evolutionary, and socio-economic impacts of their presence. Invasion ecology also explores strategies for preventing and managing the spread of invasive species to protect biodiversity and ecosystem health.