What happened to Yellowstone National Park when wolves disappeared? (1 point)
When wolves disappeared from Yellowstone National Park, several changes occurred within the ecosystem. These include:
1. Overpopulation of herbivores: Without natural predation, the population of herbivores such as elk increased significantly. They started overgrazing vegetation, which led to the degradation of many plant species.
2. Changes in animal behavior: The absence of wolves caused a shift in the behavior of herbivores. They began avoiding certain areas, particularly valleys and riverbanks, where they were vulnerable to predation. This alteration in behavior further contributed to ecological imbalances.
3. Loss of plant diversity: The overgrazing by an excessive number of herbivores resulted in the decline of certain plant species. This negatively affected the habitat and food sources of various other animals and insects.
4. Erosion and alteration of riverbanks: The absence of wolves indirectly impacted the physical landscape. Overgrazing by large herbivores led to the destruction of riverbank vegetation, causing soil erosion and altering the natural water flow patterns.
5. Decline in bird population: As certain plant species declined, birds that relied on them for food and nesting sites also experienced a decline in population.
These changes highlighted the significance of top predators like wolves in maintaining the overall health and balance of Yellowstone's ecosystem.