If you’re from parts of Asia where kudzu is indigenous, or the southeastern US where it is not, you’re probably familiar with this plant. Kudzu is an aggressively invasive species, known to overtake utility poles, abandoned buildings and cars. It is edible for humans and animals, and has been used to make clothing and paper. Estimates of kudzu’s presence in the Southeast range from 3 million hectares.
Researchers have found that kudzu’s ability to fix nitrogen in the soil has an effect on air quality. Nitrogen gas is converted to ammonium, then to nitrate, and further reactions cause nitric oxide and nitrous oxide to escape into the air. Nitric oxide is an important factor in the creation of ozone, which is harmful to the respiratory tract. This can lead to an extra week of high ozone levels in parts of Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi, where sensitive groups should avoid going outside. This study shows how natural and unnatural forces can affect the environment. We have caused a lot of damage by introducing invasive species, but one that contributes to air pollution is particularly concerning. We need to be responsible stewards of the environment before it is overrun by destructive plants.
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