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

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.

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

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

Answer 1

The most likely scenario is:

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

This is because white-furred rabbits are typically better adapted to cold, snowy environments, where their coloration provides camouflage against predators. As the average temperature increases and winters become shorter (leading to less snow cover), brown-furred rabbits, which are better camouflaged in a warmer, less snowy environment, are likely to thrive more than white-furred rabbits. Thus, the proportion of white-furred rabbits would likely decline.