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)

Question

Responses

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.
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.

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.

Answer 1

The species most likely classified as an invasive species in the United States is Species C, the plant from Japan. This is indicated by its rapid growth rate (up to a foot per day), its ability to smother low-growing plants and kill trees, and the fact that it has no natural predators, which allows it to spread uncontrollably and disrupt local ecosystems. In contrast, the other species either do not grow uncontrollably or are managed in ways that mitigate their impact.