Essay Question: Choose one invasive species found in Indiana and describe its impact on the local environment. Include details about how the species was introduced, its characteristics, and the problems it causes for native plants and animals. Additionally, discuss any efforts being made to control or eradicate the invasive species and propose possible solutions to mitigate its negative effects on the ecosystem. Use specific examples and evidence to support your arguments. Use 4-8 sentences. 10 points(10 points)

Answer 1

One invasive species found in Indiana is the emerald ash borer (Agrilus plani), which was accidentally introduced to North America from Asia in the early 2000s. This invasive beetle attacks ash trees by laying eggs under the bark, leading to the destruction of ash trees by disrupting the flow of water and nutrients. The emerald ash borer has led to the decline of million of ash trees across Indiana, disrupting the natural habitat for local birds and insects that rely on ash trees for food and shelter. Efforts to control the spread of the emerald ash borer include implementing quarantines to prevent the transport of infested wood, releasing parasitic wasps that prey on the beetle larvae, and treating ash trees with insecticides. To mitigate the negative effects of the emerald ash borer on the ecosystem, planting a diverse range of tree species and removing infested ash trees can help prevent further spread of this destructive invasive species.