Predator/prey interactions regulate the populations of both groups. Which chain of events follows from an increase in predators?(1 point)

Question

Responses

decrease in prey → decrease in predators → increase in prey
decrease in prey → decrease in predators → increase in prey

increase in prey → increase in predators → decrease in prey
increase in prey → increase in predators → decrease in prey

increase in prey → decrease in predators → decrease in prey
increase in prey → decrease in predators → decrease in prey

decrease in prey → increase in predators → decrease in prey

Answer 1

The correct chain of events that follows from an increase in predators is:

decrease in prey → decrease in predators → increase in prey.

This interaction reflects the dynamic balance between predator and prey populations. When predators increase, they consume more prey, leading to a decrease in the prey population. As the prey population declines, there may not be enough food to sustain the predator population, resulting in a decrease in predators. With fewer predators, the prey population can then rebound and increase.