The wild hog is an invasive species in the United States. They are omnivores and their population has been growing at an alarming rate. The following table shows a comparison of plots of land that were fenced and unfenced from wild hogs. Fenced Unfenced
Plant
Populations
High abundance of
large-seeded species
High growth rate
of young trees
Large population of
one invasive species
Low species diversity
Ground
Cover
Extensive flowering herbs
Plenty of plant debris
High soil nitrogen levels
Extensive bare ground

How does the lack of fencing in an area allow wild hogs to affect an ecosystem?
A.
Wild hogs bring new plants that improve the habitat and create an ecosystem that supports more species.
B.
Wild hogs cause damage to the ecosystem and native populations by destroying and eating plants.
C.
Wild hogs improve the growth of all plants because they cause the soil in the ecosystem to become more fertile.
D.
Wild hogs have a neutral impact on the ecosystem by having both positive and negative effects on populations.