Inferences are conclusions or interpretations drawn from evidence or reasoning rather than directly observed facts. Based on this definition, the following statements from your options can be considered inferences:
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The drought is causing the elephant population to go down. (This is an inference; it suggests a cause-and-effect relationship based on the observation of drought.)
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Poachers must be why the elephant population has changed. (This is an inference; it suggests a reason for a change without direct evidence.)
The other statements are factual statements and describe observed data or specific measurements:
- Plant density is 100 individuals per square meter. (Fact)
- The water source pond has dried up. (Fact)
- Last year there were 114 elephants in the region. (Fact)
- There are 112 elephants in this region. (Fact)
In summary, the inferred statements are the first and third ones.