Researchers determine the population of phytoplankton in an area of the ocean is significantly decreased compared to the previous year. What can they conclude from this observation?(1 point)

Question

Responses

The plankton as a carbon sink will be less than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be greater than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink will be less than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be greater than expected.

The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be greater than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be greater than expected.

The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be less than expected.
The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be less than expected.

The plankton as a carbon sink will be greater than expected, but the plankton as a carbon source will be less than expected.

Answer 1

The most appropriate conclusion that researchers can make from the observation of a significant decrease in phytoplankton population is:

The plankton as a carbon sink and as a carbon source in the area will be less than expected.

This conclusion arises because a reduction in phytoplankton would lead to decreased carbon uptake (reducing their role as a carbon sink) and potentially lower carbon release through respiration and decomposition (affecting their role as a carbon source).