Question

Consider a field where many plants are specifically pollinated by bees. If there was a sudden increase in the population of a bee predator, such as the dragonfly, we might observe a reduction in the bee population, which would lead to reduced pollination. Select the most likely outcome of this change in the ecosystem.(1 point)
Responses

Wind will pollinate plants in this area.
Wind will pollinate plants in this area.

Plants that were bee-pollinated will attract new insect pollinators.
Plants that were bee-pollinated will attract new insect pollinators.

Bees will start to avoid this area because of predation.
Bees will start to avoid this area because of predation.

The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.

Answer 1

The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.

Reason: Loss of bee pollinators reduces successful reproduction of bee‑dependent plants, causing declines in those species and overall plant diversity (only wind‑ or self‑pollinated species would persist).