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Multiple Choice
In an ecosystem where the population of herbivores suddenly declines, what inference can be made about the availability of food for carnivores?
A
The availability of food for carnivores will likely increase.
B
The availability of food for carnivores will likely decrease.
C
The availability of food for carnivores will remain unchanged.
D
Carnivores will switch to eating plants exclusively.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the food chain in an ecosystem: Herbivores consume plants, and carnivores rely on herbivores as their primary food source. A decline in herbivore population directly impacts the food availability for carnivores.
Analyze the relationship between herbivores and carnivores: If herbivores decline, the carnivores lose a significant portion of their food supply, leading to a decrease in food availability for carnivores.
Consider alternative food sources for carnivores: Carnivores are typically specialized in consuming meat, and switching to plants exclusively is unlikely due to their dietary adaptations. This means their food options are limited when herbivores decline.
Evaluate the ecosystem dynamics: A sudden decline in herbivores disrupts the balance of the ecosystem, potentially causing stress or population decline in carnivores due to reduced food availability.
Conclude the inference: Based on the food chain and ecosystem dynamics, the availability of food for carnivores will likely decrease when the population of herbivores declines.