Kudzu is a non-native, invasive vine that grows in the forests of the American Southeast. Kudzu grows quickly, covering native plants and trees. Kudzu can grow up to a foot each day and can reproduce in two ways: by flowers and seeds, or by growing roots from where the vine contacts the soil. The picture shows an area covered in kudzu.

Question

Kudzu is a non-native, invasive vine that grows in the forests of the American Southeast. Kudzu grows quickly, covering native plants and trees. Kudzu can grow up to a foot each day and can reproduce in two ways: by flowers and seeds, or by growing roots from where the vine contacts the soil. The picture shows an area covered in kudzu.

One student claims that because the introduction of kudzu has increased the producer population, kudzu is good for forest ecosystems. Based on the information provided about kudzu and your knowledge of ecosystems, select the correct answer from each drop-down menu to complete the sentences to support or refute the student’s claim.

(4 points)
The introduction of kudzu , native plant populations because kudzu for resources. Kudzu will effect the forest ecosystem because it will grow quickly and can native plants and trees.

Answer 1

The introduction of kudzu will DECREASE native plant populations because kudzu COMPETES for resources. Kudzu will NEGATIVELY effect the forest ecosystem because it will grow quickly and can SMOTHER native plants and trees.

Answer 2

The introduction of kudzu will negatively impact native plant populations because kudzu competes for resources. Kudzu will disrupt the forest ecosystem because it will grow quickly and can overtake native plants and trees.

Answer 3

The introduction of kudzu will negatively impact native plant populations because kudzu competes for resources. Kudzu will have a detrimental effect on the forest ecosystem because it will grow quickly and can outcompete native plants and trees.