How did the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park affect the beaver population?(1 point)
Responses
The wolves decreased the population by eating beavers.
The wolves increased the population by eating a competitor.
The wolves increased the population by eating beavers’ predators.
The wolves decreased the population by eating beavers’ prey.
To understand how the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park affected the beaver population, we need to analyze the relationships between wolves, beavers, and other species in the ecosystem.
In this case, there are four responses presented:
1. The wolves decreased the population by eating beavers.
2. The wolves increased the population by eating a competitor.
3. The wolves increased the population by eating beavers' predators.
4. The wolves decreased the population by eating beavers' prey.
To determine the correct answer, we need to consider the ecological interactions between the species. Wolves are known to be predators, so option 1 and option 3 are more likely to be correct, as they suggest that the wolves may have a negative impact on the beaver population.
However, to fully understand the scenario, we need to consider the ecological roles of the beavers. Beavers create habitats by building dams in rivers and streams. These dammed habitats support a variety of species, including fish and invertebrates, and in turn, attract predators such as otters and eagles.
When wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park, they primarily targeted and preyed on the elk population, forcing them to change their grazing patterns. As a result, the vegetation along rivers and streams started to regenerate, which had a positive impact on the beavers. The increased vegetation provided more food and building materials for beavers, allowing their population to thrive.
Based on this understanding, option 2 seems to be the most accurate answer:
- The wolves increased the population by eating a competitor.
By altering the ecosystem dynamics and reducing the elk population, the presence of wolves indirectly benefited the beaver population in Yellowstone National Park.