In an ecosystem, the average temperature increases, causing a shorter winter. There are two varieties of rabbits in this area, white-furred rabbits and brown-furred rabbits. Which scenario is most likely? (1 point)

Question

Responses

Both white- and brown-furred rabbits decline.
Both white- and brown-furred rabbits decline.

The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.
The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.

Both white- and brown-furred rabbits increase.
Both white- and brown-furred rabbits increase.

The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population increases.

Answer 1

The scenario that is most likely to occur is:

The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.

As the average temperature increases and winters become shorter, the camouflage advantage that white-furred rabbits typically have in snowy environments diminishes. Meanwhile, brown-furred rabbits may have a better chance of survival in the changed environment. This could lead to a decline in the proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population.