Dutch elm disease is a disease that affects elm trees and is caused by a fungal species that infects the vascular systems of the
tree. Over time, the fungus will spread through the vascular tissue and eventually result in a complete blockage that prohibits water and nutrient transport in the tree. Dutch elm disease is most commonly spread by elm bark beetles that can carry fungal spores on their body. When an infected beetle lands on a healthy elm tree to feed, the tree can become infected by the spores. As beetles move from tree to tree, more of the elm population can become infected.
Suppose a forested area has many tree species, including elms. Elm bark beetles carrying the fungus that causes Dutch elm disease are accidentally introduced into the area by humans. The elm bark beetle population flourishes because of a lack of natural predators.
What will most likely happen over time as the elm bark beetle population grows?
