Consider a field where many plants are specifically pollinated by bees. If there was a sudden increase in the population of a bee predator, such as the dragonfly, we might observe a reduction in the bee population, which would lead to reduced pollination. Select the most likely outcome of this change in the ecosystem. (1 point)
Responses
The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
Bees will start to avoid this area because of predation.
Bees will start to avoid this area because of predation.
Wind will pollinate plants in this area.
Wind will pollinate plants in this area.
Plants that were bee-pollinated will attract new insect pollinators.
The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
The most likely outcome of this change in the ecosystem is that the plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
Given the question and the information provided, the most likely outcome of this change in the ecosystem would be: The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
Explanation:
When there is a sudden increase in the population of a bee predator like the dragonfly, it will lead to a reduction in the bee population. As a result, there will be a decrease in the number of bees available for pollination in the area. Bees are important pollinators for many plants, so a decline in their population will directly affect the pollination process.
With a reduced bee population, the plants that relied on bee pollination may experience a decrease in effective pollination. This can lead to a decrease in the overall plant community size and diversity. Some plants may struggle to reproduce, which can affect their ability to compete and survive in the ecosystem.
The other options mentioned do not directly address the relationship between bee population decline and the consequent reduction in pollination. While wind pollination and the attraction of new insect pollinators are possible mechanisms for some plants, they do not address the scenario where a specific bee-plant mutualistic relationship is disrupted due to increased predation.