Question

Select the statement(s) that best explain how the bramble cay melomys became extinct.

Competition with the seabirds for food on the island.

The rising sea levels destroyed the melomys habitat, leaving them without food or protection.

The melomys fur did not allow them to cool down when the habitat became warmer with climate change.

Humans hunted them to extinction.

Storms caused the habitat to flood and melomys to be swept out to sea.

Answer 1

- The rising sea levels destroyed the melomys habitat, leaving them without food or protection.
- Storms caused the habitat to flood and melomys to be swept out to sea.

Reason: habitat loss from sea-level rise, erosion and repeated storm-surge flooding that destroyed vegetation and nesting areas (and likely drowned/washed away individuals) is the documented cause. Hunting, seabird competition, and fur/heat issues are not supported.