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Multiple Choice
Which of the following scenarios would make it least likely for plants in grasslands to benefit from adaptations that protect against grazing?
A
If grazing pressure increased due to a rise in herbivore population
B
If grazing animals were absent from the grassland ecosystem
C
If plants developed thorns to deter herbivores
D
If grazing animals were the primary consumers in the ecosystem
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the ecological context: Grasslands are ecosystems where grazing animals (herbivores) play a significant role in shaping plant populations. Adaptations like thorns or chemical defenses help plants survive grazing pressure.
Analyze the scenarios provided: Each scenario describes a different condition affecting the interaction between plants and grazing animals. Consider how each scenario impacts the need for plant adaptations against grazing.
Scenario 1: If grazing pressure increased due to a rise in herbivore population, plants would likely benefit from adaptations that protect against grazing, as the pressure to survive would be higher.
Scenario 2: If grazing animals were absent from the grassland ecosystem, there would be no grazing pressure, making adaptations against grazing unnecessary. This scenario makes it least likely for plants to benefit from such adaptations.
Scenario 3: If plants developed thorns to deter herbivores, this would be a direct adaptation to grazing pressure, showing that plants benefit from these defenses. Similarly, if grazing animals were the primary consumers in the ecosystem, plants would need adaptations to survive grazing pressure.