Final answer:
It is necessary to eliminate all invasive fire ant colonies to eradicate the invasive population because they have a major impact on native flora and fauna, can spread to new areas, and even a single remaining colony can rebuild the population.
The correct option is E) All of the above.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is necessary to eliminate absolutely all invasive fire ant colonies to eradicate the invasive population because:
- Every colony has a major impact on native flora and fauna. Invasive fire ant colonies can outcompete and displace native species, leading to a decline in biodiversity
- Fire ant colonies can spread by sending out winged members, allowing them to establish new colonies in different areas.
- Even a single remaining colony can rebuild the invasive species' population. Fire ants reproduce at a high rate, and if a single colony is left, it can quickly grow and spread, undoing any progress made in eradicating the population.