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Mammoth Cave National ParkMatt Bransford leading a group into Mammoth Cave, circa 1920
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Mammoth Cave National Park
Nonnative Species
 
Nature and Science
Garlic mustard, a pervasive alien species
Exotic Species: There are two categories of exotic species which have had significant impact on park forests: pathogens and invasive plants. Chestnut Blight and Dutch Elm Disease have virtually eliminated American chestnut and American elm and a similar fungal disease is currently impacting the American Butternut tree. Invasive exotic plant species such as honeysuckle, garlic mustard, kudzu, Microstegium, silver poplar, and Ailanthus out-compete native species and are therefore spreading. With over 1,000 species of flowering plants - including 84 tree species - the potential for loss of biodiversity is great.
Grease-oil lamp  

Did You Know?
The grease-oil lamp was used to illuminate Mammoth Cave for more than a century. Designed after New England whale-oil lanterns, these lamps used cooking grease to light the way.

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Last Updated: July 24, 2006 at 22:37 EST