Question

kudzu is a japanese ornamental plant that is considered an invasive species, especially in the southern united states. in the early 1900s, kudzu was a favorite of american gardeners for its ability to quickly propagate. it was also used to prevent soil erosion. however, it became a nuisance, outcompeting native plants due to its unstoppable growth. would kudzu likely be categorized as r - selected or k - selected, and why is it so effective as invasive species? choose 1 answer: a kudzu is r - selected, and it is an effective invasive because it establishes in nutrient - rich soil. b kudzu is r - selected, and it is an effective invasive because it propagates easily by producing many stems at a time. c kudzu is k - selected, and it is an effective invasive because it can outcompete native species. d kudzu is k - selected, and it is an effective invasive because it devotes little energy to producing seeds.

Explanation:

r - selected species are characterized by high reproductive rates and rapid population growth. Kudzu's ability to quickly propagate by producing many stems at a time is a typical trait of r - selected species. This rapid propagation helps it outcompete native plants and become an effective invasive species.

Answer:

B. Kudzu is r - selected, and it is an effective invasive because it propagates easily by producing many stems at a time.