Which action may increase the flask’s carrying capacity for rotifers?
A) decrease the size of flask
B) increase the number of microorganisms
C) introduce water fleas
D) decrease the number of microorganisms
B) increase the number of microorganisms.
Rotifers are small aquatic animals that feed on microorganisms such as bacteria and algae. By increasing the number of microorganisms in the flask, there will be more food available for the rotifers, which will increase their carrying capacity. Decreasing the size of the flask or decreasing the number of microorganisms would have the opposite effect and decrease the carrying capacity. Introducing water fleas may also increase the carrying capacity, but it depends on the specific interactions between the rotifers and water fleas.
The action that may increase the flask's carrying capacity for rotifers is:
B) increase the number of microorganisms
To determine which action may increase the flask's carrying capacity for rotifers, we need to understand the concept of carrying capacity. Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size that a particular environment can sustain over time.
In this case, we are specifically considering rotifers, so we need to think about the factors that affect their population size. Rotifers are tiny aquatic animals that feed on microorganisms. Therefore, the availability of food (microorganisms) plays a crucial role in determining their carrying capacity.
Now, let's analyze the options given:
A) Decrease the size of flask: Reducing the size of the flask would likely result in a decrease in the carrying capacity for rotifers. With less space available, there would be limited resources and potentially overcrowding, which can negatively impact population size.
B) Increase the number of microorganisms: Increasing the number of microorganisms would lead to a higher food supply for rotifers. Since microorganisms are their primary source of nutrition, having more available would likely increase the carrying capacity for rotifers. This option seems plausible.
C) Introduce water fleas: Water fleas are not a direct food source for rotifers. Therefore, introducing water fleas into the flask would not necessarily increase the carrying capacity for rotifers, as they require microorganisms to survive.
D) Decrease the number of microorganisms: If the number of microorganisms decreases, it would reduce the food supply for rotifers. Insufficient food availability could lead to a decrease in the carrying capacity for rotifers. This option is unlikely to increase their carrying capacity.
Based on this analysis, the correct answer would be B) Increase the number of microorganisms, as it would likely result in a higher carrying capacity for rotifers.