Question

Claim: (2 points) A complete sentence stating which limiting factor is affecting the wildflowers on the forest floor

Evidence: (2 points) Two pieces of evidence that support your claim (Hint: What did the scientist observe?)

Reasoning: (2 points) Scientific explanation of how this particular limiting factor affects the wildflowers

Answer 1

**Claim:** The limiting factor affecting the wildflowers on the forest floor is insufficient sunlight.

**Evidence:** First, the scientist observed that the wildflowers were primarily located in areas where the canopy was less dense, allowing more sunlight to reach the forest floor. Second, the scientist noted that wildflower diversity and abundance were significantly lower in shaded areas compared to clearings receiving direct sunlight.

**Reasoning:** Wildflowers rely on sunlight for photosynthesis, the process by which they convert light energy into chemical energy to fuel their growth. Insufficient sunlight limits their ability to produce food, thus stunting their growth and reducing their reproduction rates. As a result, when sunlight is limited due to a dense canopy, wildflower populations decline, leading to decreased biodiversity in the forest ecosystem.