How would reducing low-growing plants from an area impact a population of tortoises with two varieties of neck extension ability: short and long distance?(1 point)

Question

Responses

The variety of tortoises with the ability to extend their necks a long distance would go extinct.

The proportion of tortoises with the ability to extend their necks a long distance would increase.

The proportion of tortoises that could only extend their necks a short distance would increase.

The variety of tortoises that could only extend their necks a short distance would go extinct.

Answer 1

The correct response would be:

The proportion of tortoises that could only extend their necks a short distance would increase.

Reducing low-growing plants in an area means food resources that are accessible to short-necked tortoises would be limited. Long-necked tortoises would have an advantage as they can reach food that is higher up, so the short-necked variety may struggle more for resources, ultimately reducing their population. However, if the low-growing plants are greatly reduced and no other food sources are available, the long-necked tortoises could benefit, potentially allowing some of the short-necked tortoises to survive if they can adapt to different food sources. Nonetheless, the initial impact would favor the long-distance neck extension ability.