Suppose that the local temperature changes in favor of greater oxygen levels in the water. Write a short paragraph to describe how both the population of the small fish species and the wading bird population would change in response to the new oxygen levels over the next six months. Then explain why these changes occur.
Both would increase. Now all you have to do is explain why.
In response to the increased oxygen levels in the water due to a local temperature change, both the population of the small fish species and the wading bird population would exhibit changes over the next six months. Initially, with the rise in oxygen levels, the small fish population is likely to experience a boost in their numbers. As oxygen is essential for their survival, increased levels would improve their overall health and reproductive success. With more oxygen available, the fish would have enhanced metabolism and more energy for growth and reproduction. As a result, their population would likely increase.
On the other hand, the wading bird population would also respond to the changes in oxygen levels but in a different manner. Wading birds primarily rely on fish as their food source. With the rising population of small fish, the wading birds would find an abundant and easily accessible food supply. Consequently, this would attract more wading birds to the area, leading to an increase in their population size over time.
These changes occur because oxygen plays a crucial role in the functioning and survival of aquatic organisms. Fish, being ectothermic animals, rely on oxygen to regulate their metabolism, growth, and reproduction. With increased oxygen availability, they can carry out these vital life processes more efficiently, leading to enhanced population growth.
Wading birds, as predators of small fish, benefit from the increased fish population resulting from improved oxygen levels. A larger food supply in the form of small fish attracts and sustains more wading birds in the area. The availability of abundant prey helps the wading bird population thrive and expand.
Overall, the positive impact of increased oxygen levels on the small fish population creates a cascading effect that benefits the wading bird population, leading to a growth in their numbers as well.