Question

Biodiversity Unit Test
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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)
Responses

The trout population will decrease.
The trout population will decrease.

The deer population will decrease.
The deer population will decrease.

A new predator species will begin eating deer.
A new predator species will begin eating deer.

The stream will become polluted.

Answer 1

The most likely outcome if the mountain lion population vanishes is that the deer population will increase unchecked, leading to overgrazing of the willow trees. This could ultimately result in a decrease in the willow trees, which would lead to a decrease in shade for the trout, potentially causing a decrease in the trout population as well.