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)
A. Plants that were bee-pollinated will attract new insect pollinators.
B. The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
C. Bees will start to avoid this area because of predation.
D. Wind will pollinate plants in this area
B. The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
The most likely outcome of a sudden increase in the population of a bee predator, such as the dragonfly, would be:
B. The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
This is because the reduction in the bee population, which are specific pollinators for many plants in the field, would result in a decrease in pollination. As a result, this would likely lead to a decline in the number and variety of plants in the ecosystem.
Based on the information provided, the most likely outcome of the sudden increase in the population of a bee predator like the dragonfly would be:
B. The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
Explanation: Since the bee population is reduced due to predation, there will be fewer bees available for pollination in the field. This reduction in bee pollinators will directly impact the process of pollination, which is essential for the reproduction of many plants. Consequently, without sufficient pollinators, the plant community will likely experience a decline in population and diversity. Other options such as attracting new insect pollinators or wind pollination are not as likely due to the specific dependence of these plants on bee pollination. Bees avoiding the area due to predation is possible, but it would not directly address the reduction in pollination and subsequent impact on the plant community.