Question

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? A) Both white- and brown-furred rabbits increase. B) Both white- and brown-furred rabbits decline. C) The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population increases. D) The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.

Answer 1

C) The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population increases.

As the winter becomes shorter and less harsh, the white-furred rabbits would have an advantage over the brown-furred rabbits because their light coloration would provide better camouflage in the snow. This advantage would likely lead to an increase in the proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population.