7. PART A: Based on the information in the passage, what is one conclusion that can be drawn about the emerald ash borer?
A. The habits of the emerald ash borer are harmful to ash trees.
B. The emerald ash borer is the most destructive of the buprestids in North America.
C. The buprestids, including the emerald ash borer, cause problems for Connecticut homeowners.
D. Additional laws are needed in North America to help protect the ash trees from the emerald ash borer.
It can be concluded that the habits of the emerald ash borer have a detrimental impact on ash trees. Based on the information provided in the passage, one conclusion that can be drawn about the emerald ash borer is:
A) The habits of the emerald ash borer are harmful to ash trees.
The passage indicates that the emerald ash borer is an invasive species that feeds on and damages ash trees. It states that the insect's larvae tunnel under the bark, disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients, ultimately leading to the tree's decline and death. The emerald ash borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle species native to Asia that has caused significant harm to ash trees in North America.
Destructiveness of the Emerald Ash Borer
The emerald ash borer is highly destructive to ash trees. The larvae of the beetle tunnel under the bark of ash trees, creating winding galleries that disrupt the flow of water and nutrients. Over time, this damage weakens the tree, causing branch dieback, crown thinning, and ultimately tree death.
Spread and Infestation
The emerald ash borer has spread rapidly throughout North America since its initial detection in the early 2000s. It is believed to have been inadvertently introduced through the transportation of infested wood products. The beetle has affected millions of ash trees across various states and provinces, causing widespread environmental and economic impacts.
Specific Impact in North America
While the emerald ash borer is a member of the beetle family Buprestidae, it is considered the most destructive species within this group in North America. Its infestation has resulted in the decline and loss of a significant number of ash trees in affected areas.
Control and Management Efforts
Controlling the spread of the emerald ash borer and managing its impact on ash trees has been a significant challenge. Various approaches have been employed, including the use of insecticides, biological control agents, and quarantine measures to limit the movement of infested wood. Additionally, efforts have been made to raise public awareness, promote early detection, and implement tree removal and replacement strategies.
Overall, the emerald ash borer is a highly damaging insect species that poses a significant threat to ash trees in North America. Its infestation has led to the implementation of various control and management strategies, as well as calls for additional laws and regulations to mitigate its impact and protect ash tree populations.