Native plant A is endangered. You suspect that part of the reason for its decline is competition with an introduced exotic plant, B, which occupies a similar ecological niche. Which of the following experiments would NOT help you decide whether competition with B contributes to the decline of A?
A) Raise each species by itself in the absence of competition in a greenhouse, and measure growth and reproductive rates.
B) Establish experimental plots in which you remove plant B.
C) Count the number of seeds produced by A and B in nature.
D) Compare their DNA.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

DNA comparison would not directly help you determine whether competition with species B is contributing to the decline of species A. It may provide information about their evolutionary relationship or potential hybridization, but not competition. A, B, and C would all provide information about the potential impact of competition on species A.

Native Plant a Is Endangered