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 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 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 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 provided statements, Species C would most likely be classified as an invasive species in the United States. Invasive species are characterized by their ability to thrive in a new environment, often outcompeting native species and causing ecological harm, which aligns with Species C's description of growing up to a foot per day, smothering low-growing plants, killing trees, and lacking natural predators.

The other species mentioned do not exhibit the same level of harmful ecological impact:

• Species A is considered a weed but does not grow uncontrollably.
• Species B is farmed for its pollination capabilities and does not appear to have a damaging effect on the environment.
• Species D is used as a biological control against an invasive plant and does not affect native plants, indicating it is not invasive itself.

Thus, Species C stands out as the one most likely to be deemed invasive.