Question 20

Miconia can destroy a natural habitat.

Miconia calvescens is described as creating a "biological desert" in Pacific Island forests, indicating its ability to disrupt and destroy natural habitats by filling light gaps and preventing other plants and animals from thriving.

A) It can destroy a natural habitat.

This option is correct as the extract explicitly states that Miconia creates canopies under which few animals or other plants can live, leading to a "biological desert." This highlights its destructive impact on existing ecosystems.

B) It adapts equally well to forests and deserts.

This option is incorrect because the passage focuses on Miconia's success in forest environments, particularly in Pacific Island forests, and does not mention its adaptation to desert conditions. The adaptation discussed is specific to forest canopies rather than a variety of ecosystems.

C) It thrives primarily on tropical islands.

While Miconia may thrive in Pacific Island forests, the passage does not suggest that it is limited to tropical islands. Instead, it originated in South American forests, making this statement overly restrictive and thus incorrect.

D) It provides protection for some plant species.

This option is incorrect because the passage indicates that Miconia's presence creates an inhospitable environment for other plants and animals, suggesting that it does not provide protection but rather threatens the survival of native species.

Conclusion

The evidence from the passage clearly supports that Miconia calvescens can destroy natural habitats by creating conditions that are detrimental to other forms of life. All other options either misinterpret the ecological role of Miconia or suggest adaptations and benefits that are not supported by the provided context.