Question

Imagine that an ecosystem contains rabbits, foxes, wolves, and deer. The following predator-prey relationships exist:

Rabbits are eaten by foxes and wolves
Deer are eaten by wolves
Foxes are eaten by wolves
Select the animal whose absence would have the greatest negative effect on the ecosystem.

Answer 1

wolf

Answer 2

Correct, the absence of wolves would have the greatest negative effect on the ecosystem. Since wolves are the apex predator in this scenario and they eat both rabbits and deer, their absence would cause an increase in the populations of rabbits and deer, leading to overgrazing and potential ecosystem collapse. Additionally, without wolves, the fox population would increase, causing a decrease in the rabbit population, potentially leading to their extinction. So, the presence of wolves is crucial for maintaining a balanced and healthy ecosystem.