Biology Regents Practice Exam

Why are homeowners encouraged to remove invasive plants from their properties?

1. To allow only one type of native plant to grow

2. To preserve biodiversity

3. To eliminate unfamiliar food sources

4. To increase the rate of ecological succession

The correct answer is: To preserve biodiversity

Homeowners are encouraged to remove invasive plants from their properties primarily to preserve biodiversity. Invasive species often outcompete native plants for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients. This competition can lead to a decline in native plant populations, which in turn affects the animals and other organisms that depend on those plants for survival. Biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem stability and resilience, as a variety of species can better withstand environmental changes and disturbances. Promoting native plants contributes to a balanced ecosystem where various organisms can thrive. By removing invasive species, homeowners help to restore and maintain the complex web of interactions that define healthy ecosystems, thereby supporting a greater variety of life forms and promoting ecological health.