Question

Question

Read the following statements about various species of plants and animals. Based on these statements, which one would most likely be classified as an invasive species, and not just a non-native species, in the United States?(1 point)
Responses

Species D, native to Eurasia, has been released in various American states to combat the invasive plant, purple loosestrife. It does not affect other native plants.
Species D, native to Eurasia, has been released in various American states to combat the invasive plant, purple loosestrife. It does not affect other native plants.

Species B is from Europe and can sting people. This species is often farmed in America for its ability to pollinate and provide honey.
Species B is from Europe and can sting people. This species is often farmed in America for its ability to pollinate and provide honey.

Species A is a plant from Eurasia. It is often considered a weed by homeowners and killed by using an herbicide. This plant can be consumed in salads or as a tea and is the first food resource for bees in the spring. It does not grow uncontrollably.
Species A is a plant from Eurasia. It is often considered a weed by homeowners and killed by using an herbicide. This plant can be consumed in salads or as a tea and is the first food resource for bees in the spring. It does not grow uncontrollably.

Species C, a plant from Japan, was introduced as a foliage crop and to reduce soil erosion. It grows up to a foot per day, smothering low-growing plants and killing trees. It has no natural predators.

Answer 1

Based on the statements provided, Species C would most likely be classified as an invasive species in the United States.

Here’s the reasoning:

• Species D has been released to combat an invasive species and does not affect native plants, suggesting it plays a role in the ecosystem rather than disrupting it.
• Species B, while it can sting people, is farmed for its beneficial role in pollination and honey production, which implies a level of management that mitigates its impact.
• Species A is considered a weed but does not grow uncontrollably and is actually beneficial as a food resource for bees.
• Species C grows rapidly (up to a foot per day), smothers low-growing plants, kills trees, and has no natural predators, indicating that it likely disrupts the local ecosystem significantly and poses a threat to native species.

Thus, Species C is the one that aligns with the definition of an invasive species due to its aggressive growth and negative impact on the environment.