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

• Both white- and brown-furred rabbits increase.
• The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population increases.
• Both white- and brown-furred rabbits decline.
• 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.

This is because as the average temperature increases and the winter becomes shorter, the environment may favor brown-furred rabbits due to their better camouflage in the more temperate environment. White fur is typically advantageous in snowy conditions for camouflage against predators, but with less snow and warmer temperatures, brown-furred rabbits may have a survival advantage, leading to a decline in the proportion of white-furred rabbits.