Areas inundated with the invasive plant kudzu produce significantly higher levels of ozone than those that have not been invaded, with some U.S. areas experiencing as many as seven additional days when ozone levels exceed air quality standards, according to a new study. Kudzu, a fast-growing vine common in the southern U.S. since it was imported from Asia in the 19th century, contains two ingredients that are key in the production of ozone — nitric oxide and isoprene. In an air and soil study conducted in three areas of Madison County, Ga, researchers found that levels of nitric oxide were nearly twice as high in the soil of areas invaded by kudzu. Those elevated levels of nitric oxide — which is also produced by the burning of fossil fuels — then contribute to an increase in ozone levels, according to the study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. High levels of ozone pose a known health risk to children and individuals with respiratory problems.
Invasive Kudzu Plant Contributes to Elevated Ozone Levels, Study Says
More From E360
-
Energy
Why U.S. Geothermal May Advance, Despite Political Headwinds
-
Food & Agriculture
In War Zones, a Race to Save Key Seeds Needed to Feed the World
-
Climate
Lightning Strikes the Arctic: What Will It Mean for the Far North?
-
RIVERS
A Win for Farmers and Tribes Brings New Hope to the Klamath
-
Solutions
Deconstructing Buildings: The Quest for New Life for Old Wood
-
NATURAL DEFENSES
How Restored Wetlands Can Protect Europe from Russian Invasion
-
Solutions
Birds vs. Wind Turbines: New Research Aims to Prevent Deaths
-
FORESTS
Cambodian Forest Defenders at Risk for Exposing Illegal Logging
-
OPINION
The ‘Green’ Aviation Fuel That Would Increase Carbon Emissions
-
CONSERVATION
Out of the Wild: How A.I. Is Transforming Conservation Science
-
Energy
China’s Mega Dam Project Poses Big Risks for Asia’s Grand Canyon
-
Solutions
How Natural Solutions Can Help Islands Survive Sea Level Rise