In paragraph 8, how does the phrase “spore-producing blight factory” help the reader understand the fungus?

A. It explains how the fungus originated.
B. It indicates how fast the fungus could spread.

C. It illustrates how the spores moved from tree to tree.

D. It gives a picture of how birds and insects spread the fungus.

B. It indicates how fast the fungus could spread.

The phrase "spore-producing blight factory" suggests that the fungus is capable of producing a large number of spores quickly, highlighting its ability to spread rapidly and infect other trees. This helps the reader understand the potential speed and efficiency of the fungus in causing widespread damage.