Question

The common reed is a perennial grass found throughout temperate and tropical regions of the world. Researchers recently discovered that many North American populations of the reeds are composed entirely of genetically identical clones. Which is most likely true of these populations?

Answer 1

Genetically identical clone populations of the North American common reeds are likely due to the outcompeting of native varieties by a more invasive European genotype, leading to less genetic diversity and potential ecological risks.

Step-by-step explanation:

The populations of North American common reeds that are genetically identical clones likely have less genetic diversity and may be a result of an invasive European genotype outcompeting the native variety.

In biology, genetic diversity is critical to the resilience of a species, allowing it to adapt to changing environments and resist diseases. However, when a non-native genotype is introduced, it can outcompete native varieties. In the case of the common reed (Phragmites australis), a more invasive European genotype has supplanted the native North American variety, likely through human-mediated introduction. This introduction can lead to the formation of large, monotypic stands of reeds that are genetically identical, indicating that they are all clones derived from the invasive genotype.

This lack of genetic diversity could pose a risk to the ecosystem, as these clones may not be as resilient to environmental changes or diseases. Moreover, the invasive genotype's ability to outcompete other species could lead to reduced biodiversity in the affected ecosystems.