You are a scientist observing rodents on the Gallapagos island. Do you notice that the introduction of a new bird of prey has limited the number of rodents. What term best describes the factor that is limiting the number of rodents the environment can support?
The term that best describes the factor limiting the number of rodents the environment can support is "limiting factor." In this case, the introduction of a new bird of prey is acting as a limiting factor, which is any factor that restricts the population size or distribution of a species. The bird of prey is limiting the number of rodents by predating on them, which leads to a decrease in their population size.
The term that best describes the factor that is limiting the number of rodents the environment can support is "limiting factor."
The term that best describes the factor limiting the number of rodents the environment can support is "limiting factor." In this scenario, the introduction of a new bird of prey can be considered a limiting factor because it directly influences the population size of the rodents.
To come to this conclusion, I, as a scientist observing the rodents on the Galapagos Island, would follow these steps:
1. Observe the pattern: I would notice that the number of rodents is decreasing after the introduction of the new bird of prey.
2. Analyze the relationship: I would then analyze the relationship between the new bird of prey and the rodent population. I would make note of how the bird of prey preys on rodents and reduces their population size.
3. Identify the factor: Recognizing the cause and effect between the new bird of prey and the rodent population, I would identify the new bird of prey as the factor that is limiting the number of rodents the environment can support.
Hence, based on these observations and analysis, the term "limiting factor" best describes the factor that is limiting the number of rodents the environment can support in this situation.