Most of the Tallgrass Prairies Have Been Converted ____

Question

Most of the tallgrass prairies have been converted ____.  
A) to grazing lands
B) for citrus production
C) to homesteads
D) to croplands
E) to vineyards

Accepted Answer

The conversion of tallgrass prairies to croplands is the most significant reason for the decline of these ecosystems. The fertile soils of the prairies were ideal for agriculture, and much of the grassland was plowed up and planted with crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans. This has had a profound impact on the prairie biodiversity and led to the extinction of numerous plant and animal species. Grazing lands and homesteads are also responsible for some of the conversion, but croplands are the primary culprit. Citrus and vineyards are not typically associated with tallgrass prairies.