Origin and Distribution

In its native range, Japanese knotweed is considered a __________ because it is often the first to colonize new soils after a volcanic eruption.
  A. New kid on the block.
  B. Keystone species.
  C. Pioneer species.
  D. Early Bird.
  E. None of the above.

Transportation

Japanese knotweed was introduced from Japan to Europe and North America on purpose because _________?
  A. People wanted to use the bamboo-like stems for building houses.
  B. Knotweed is delicious in pies and other pastries.
  C. Fast growth, tall stems, and beautiful foliage made knotweed a popular garden plant.
  D. An important medicine is extracted from my roots.
  E. None of the above.

Environmental Impact

It is possible knotweed will have a negative effect on water quality and salmon. Why?
  A. Knotweed shades out and prevents small trees from growing big and providing shade. Salmon need trees to        shade the water and keep it cool.
  B. Knotweed prevents native plants from growing on stream banks, and a diverse native plant community is        important for filtering the water that flows into streams.
  C. By preventing large trees from growing, knotweed my increase bank erosion and cause the water to become        muddy.
  D. All of the above.

Economic Impact

Recreation industries, such as fishing and hiking, have problems caused by knotweed because it:
  A. May have a negative impact on fish habitat.
  B. Prevents fishermen from being able to access their favorite fishing holes.
  C. Replaces native plants that hikers enjoy viewing.
  D. A, B and C.
  E. None of the above.

Control

What is the best thing people can do to help prevent the spread of Japanese knotweed?
  A. Ignore it and hope the problem goes away by itself.
  B. Be very careful not to spread its roots and stems.
  C. Tell other people about knotweed and what they can do to help.
  D. Report any new infestations so it can be controlled before it becomes a problem.
  E. B, C, and D.