Question

the tree of heaven is a fast - growing tree native to asia. a scientist wonders whether introducing this tree into a new ecosystem would cause a change in biodiversity. which kind of information would a computer model need to best help the scientist simulate this event, and which outcome would likely occur? a the scientist would need other scientific predictions about the effects of invasive species. the model would likely indicate an increase in biodiversity because a species is being added to the ecosystem. b the scientist would need a list of all the invasive species present in the ecosystem. the model would likely indicate a loss in biodiversity because ecosystem interactions would be interrupted. c the scientist would need data about the living and nonliving factors present in the ecosystem. the model would likely indicate a loss in biodiversity because ecosystem interactions would be interrupted. d the scientist would need all conclusions from other studies about the effects of the tree in other ecosystems. the model would likely indicate an increase in biodiversity because a species is being added to the ecosystem.

Explanation:

Adding a new species to an ecosystem can potentially increase biodiversity if it can co - exist and thrive without causing harm to existing species. A computer model can predict the effects of such an addition. The other options (b, c, d) describe scenarios that would lead to a decrease in biodiversity rather than an increase.

Answer:

a. The scientist would need other scientific predictions about the effects of invasive species. The model would likely indicate an increase in biodiversity because a species is being added to the ecosystem.