The table shows the change in the size of willow tree stems in sample areas of the Yellowstone ecosystem between 1995 and 2010

Question

year Average Willow Tree Stem Diameter
1995 (cm)
2000 8
2005 18
2010 25
32

Which conclusion about the number of beaver colonies between 2000 and 2010 is best supported by the data?

Question 1 options:

A. The number of beaver colonies decreased because the amount of available food for beavers decreased

The number of beaver colonies increased because the beavers adapted to a change in the food sources available.

The number of beaver colonies increased because the amount of available resources for food and shelter increased

The number of beaver colonies decreased because the beavers were unable to use theresources for food and to build shelters

Answer 1

Based on the data provided, we can see that the average willow tree stem diameter has increased from 8 cm in 2000 to 25 cm in 2010. This suggests that the availability of willow trees (a primary food source for beavers) increased over this period.

Considering this information, the conclusion that is best supported by the data regarding the number of beaver colonies between 2000 and 2010 is:

"The number of beaver colonies increased because the amount of available resources for food and shelter increased."

This option aligns with the observed increase in willow tree stem diameter, which implies a greater availability of resources for beavers.