Question

This food chain shows organisms in a tundra ecosystem.
Use the food chain to complete the text below.
If the population of Arctic foxes increases, the population of Baffin Island wolves will likely
increase
decrease
, and the population of collared lemmings will likely
increase
decrease

Answer 1

If the population of Arctic foxes increases, the population of Baffin Island wolves will likely **decrease**, and the population of collared lemmings will likely **increase**.

This is because as the Arctic fox population rises, there is more competition for resources, which can lead to a decrease in the Baffin Island wolves' population. Additionally, with more Arctic foxes preying on collared lemmings, the lemming population is likely to decrease. However, if the scenario states that Arctic foxes are thriving due to increased food sources, this may allow for lemmings to thrive as well. Hence, the exact answer may depend on the specific dynamics of the food chain and relationships within the ecosystem. In a straightforward food web, this reasoning holds.