Question

How did the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park affect the beaver population? (1 point)
A the wolves increased the population by eating beavers predators
B the wolves increased the population by eating a competitor
C the wolves decreased the population by eating beavers
D the wolves decreased the population by eating beavers prey

Answer 1

The correct answer is **D the wolves decreased the population by eating beavers' prey**. The reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone led to a decrease in the population of elk, which are a primary food source for beavers. With fewer elk, there was less browsing on willow and aspen trees, which are important for beaver habitat. This indirect effect on the ecosystem helped to increase the beaver population over time, but the statement in option D is somewhat misleading, as it suggests that beavers are directly affected by wolf predation. Beavers primarily thrive due to the management of herbivore populations, which is indirectly influenced by the presence of wolves.