Question

A stream runs through a mountain forest. Willow trees grow on each side of the stream. A small deer population feeds on the willows. Mountain trout rely on the willow shade for shelter. The apex predator in the forest is the mountain lion. The mountain lions primarily eat deer, but also eat rodents, and fish, as well as other prey species.

Analyze the components of the ecosystem. What is the most likely outcome if the mountain lion population vanishes?

(1 point)


A) A new predator species will begin eating deer.

B) The trout population will decrease.

C) The deer population will decrease.

D) The stream will become polluted.

Answer 1

C) The deer population will decrease.

If the mountain lion population vanishes, the deer population will likely increase since there will be no predator to control their numbers. This increase in deer population will lead to overgrazing of the willow trees, which will negatively impact the habitat of the mountain trout. The trout population may decrease as a result of the loss of willow shade and increased sedimentation from soil erosion caused by the overgrazing. The disappearance of the mountain lion will not directly cause pollution in the stream.