Based on the models, what reasoning ,begin emphasis,best,end emphasis, explains the student's claim that there is less energy available in ecosystems without top-level predators?

Question

Answer options with 4 options
A.
Lack of mountain lions reduces predation.
B.
Lack of mountain lions reduces photosynthesis.
C.
Lack of mountain lions reduces the number of trophic levels.   
D.
Lack of mountain lions reduces the heat released between trophic levels.

Answer 1

The best reasoning that explains the student's claim that there is less energy available in ecosystems without top-level predators is:

C. Lack of mountain lions reduces the number of trophic levels.

Having top-level predators like mountain lions helps maintain the balance of ecosystems by controlling the populations of herbivores and thereby allowing for a more diverse and stable community with multiple trophic levels. Without these predators, herbivore populations might explode, leading to overconsumption of vegetation, which can reduce the overall energy available in the ecosystem.