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 most likely outcome of the change in the ecosystem, given the reduction in bee population due to an increase in bee predators, would be: The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.

This is because many plants specifically depend on bee pollination for reproduction. A significant decline in bees would lead to reduced pollination, resulting in lower seed production and potentially smaller populations of those plants. Over time, this could reduce the overall diversity of the plant community, as bee-pollinated plants may be unable to sustain their populations without adequate pollination.