The Scotch broom is an invasive species in California, Oregon and Washington. These shrubs grow quickly after areas that have been cleared of
trees and inhibit reforestation by out-competing native seedling trees. These plants developed a mutation that causes their seed to burst from
their shell when touched by passing animals. As animals brush past these plants, the black dried pods of the Scotch broom explode with a sharp
pop, scattering seeds away from the parent plant.
Which statement below best explains why the Scotch broom is able to out-compete the native plants in that area?
A. Relying on animals to disperse the seeds always results in better reproductive success than other methods of seed dispersion.
B. Specialized seed pods allow seeds to be dispersed farther and into less crowded areas promoting reproductive success.
C. The crackling sound of seed pods exploding promotes reproductive success by attracting the animals that are responsible for scattering
seeds.
D. Genetic mutations have caused the plant to be more resistant to cold temperatures allowing them to survive and reproduce all year
long.