In both 1907 and 1913, the lynx population was about 3,000. However, in one of those years, there was much more intraspecific competition for food. Which year most likely had increased competition among lynxes?

Question

A
1913, because there were fewer snowshoe hares than lynxes

B
1913, because there were more snowshoe hares than lynxes

C
1907, because there were fewer snowshoe hares than lynxes

D
1907 because there were more snowshoe hares than lynxes

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

C 1907, because there were fewer snowshoe hares than lynxes.

Intraspecific competition for food occurs when individuals of the same species compete for the same resources. If the lynx population is about 3,000 but there are fewer snowshoe hares than there are lynxes, this would lead to increased competition for food among the lynxes. Therefore, it's reasonable to conclude that 1907 experienced increased intraspecific competition for food.