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)
Responses
The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
Plants that were bee-pollinated will attract new insect pollinators.
Plants that were bee-pollinated will attract new insect pollinators.
Wind will pollinate plants in this area.
Wind will pollinate plants in this area.
Bees will start to avoid this area because of predation.
The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
The most likely outcome of this change in the ecosystem is that plants that were bee-pollinated will attract new insect pollinators.
The most likely outcome of a sudden increase in the population of a bee predator, such as the dragonfly, is that the bee population will be reduced, which would result in reduced pollination. Based on this information, the most plausible response would be:
- The plant community will become smaller and less diverse.
Explanation:
With a decrease in the bee population due to predation, the plants that rely on bee pollination will experience a decline in their pollination rates. This can result in reduced seed production and fewer plants being able to reproduce successfully. Over time, this can lead to a decrease in the overall size and diversity of the plant community in the affected area.