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Question
A marine ecosystem off the California coast consists of leatherback turtles that feed on jellyfish, and killer whales that prey on the leatherback turtles. Habitat loss and fishing have been identified as the main reasons for the reduced numbers of leatherback turtles, who are on the verge of being declared an endangered species.

What would be the first effect on the ecosystem if habitat loss and fishing continue unchecked?
Responses
A A spurt in the population of jellyfishA spurt in the population of jellyfish
B A spurt in the population of killer whalesA spurt in the population of killer whales
C A change in the feeding habits of jellyfishA change in the feeding habits of jellyfish
D A migration of jelly fish from the ecosystemA migration of jelly fish from the ecosystem
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Answer 1

A — A spurt in the population of jellyfish.

With fewer leatherback turtles (their predators), jellyfish experience reduced predation and their numbers would increase first. (Killer whales would be affected later by loss of their turtle prey.)