EASTER ISLAND PALM
In the 1400s, the Easter Island palm became extinct due to overharvesting. Reproduction was nearly impossible because islanders introduced rats when they first arrived. These rats ate the Easter Island palm seeds, preventing the Easter Island palm from flourishing. With the disappearance of the palm, the islanders could no longer build the boats they needed for fishing.
Which of the following would NOT result from the loss of the Eastern Island palm?
A.
an increase in the islanders' consumption of land and migratory birds, resulting in a decrease in the bird population
B.
the loss of pollinating birds to the island, resulting in a decrease in the variety of plant life on the island
C
.
a decrease in the temperature, leading to decreased biodiversity
D
.
the erosion of topsoil, leading to decreased crop production
1 answer
C. a decrease in the temperature, leading to decreased biodiversity
This option would not result from the loss of the Easter Island palm, as the extinction of a plant species typically does not directly cause a decrease in temperature. The other options relate to consequences of losing a significant plant species, such as changes in animal populations and soil health.
