C. sparrow
Sparrows are best adapted to the ecosystem after the disease kills the corn and millet plants because they eat all four types of seeds listed in the table, including safflower seeds and sunflower seeds which are still available in the ecosystem. The other birds listed in the table either rely heavily on corn and millet seeds (bunting, pigeon) or do not eat safflower seeds (cardinal). The sparrow is the most versatile and adaptable in this situation.
The following table shows the kinds of seed that are commonly eaten by four types of birds. In the table, an X indicates that the bird eats the seed from that plant.
corn millet safflower sunflower
bunting X X
cardinal X X
pigeon X X
sparrow X X X
An ecosystem originally has an adequate supply of corn, millet seeds, safflower seeds, and sunflower seeds. One year, a disease kills most of the corn and millet plants. Based on the table, which kind of bird is best adapted to the ecosystem after the disease kills the corn and millet plants?
A.
bunting
B.
cardinal
C.
sparrow
D.
jay
1 answer