The Kudzu vine was brought to the United States from Japan. Which of the following additional characteristics of the Kudzu vine determined that it was an invasive species?
a
it has no economic benefit
b
it was believed to be a "miracle plant"
c
it protects vulnerable grounds against wind erosion
d
it grows rapidly, robbing other plants of sunlight
d) it grows rapidly, robbing other plants of sunlight.
To determine which of the characteristics of the Kudzu vine made it an invasive species, we need to evaluate each option:
a) It has no economic benefit: This characteristic alone does not necessarily indicate that a species is invasive. Many non-invasive plants also do not have direct economic benefits.
b) It was believed to be a "miracle plant": While this belief may have contributed to its introduction, it does not directly determine if it is invasive or not.
c) It protects vulnerable grounds against wind erosion: This characteristic suggests a potential positive impact on the environment rather than being invasive.
d) It grows rapidly, robbing other plants of sunlight: This characteristic is a key factor in determining the invasiveness of the Kudzu vine. Its rapid growth and ability to outcompete other plants for resources make it invasive.
Therefore, the correct answer is option d) It grows rapidly, robbing other plants of sunlight.