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

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

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

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

Answer 1

The most likely scenario is:

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

As the average temperature increases and winter becomes shorter, the advantage of having white fur for camouflage during winter would decrease, likely leading to a decline in the proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population. Brown-furred rabbits may have a better camouflage advantage in the changing environment, particularly as winter conditions diminish.