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? (1 point)

Question

Responses

Both white- and brown-furred rabbits increase.

Both white- and brown-furred rabbits decline.

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

The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.

Answer 1

In an ecosystem where the average temperature increases and winter becomes shorter, the most likely scenario is:

The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.

This is because white-furred rabbits are typically adapted to colder environments with snow covering the ground, which helps them camouflage and evade predators. As the winter shortens and temperatures rise, the advantages of their white fur diminish, leading to potential declines in their population relative to brown-furred rabbits, which are better suited to warmer conditions and can blend into the environment year-round.