Imagine that an ecosystem contains rabbits, foxes, wolves, and deer.
The following predator-prey relationship exists:
Rabbits are eaten by foxes and wolves
Deer are eaten by wolves
Foxes are eaten by wolves
Select the animal whose absence would have the greatest negative effect on the ecosystem.
A. rabbit
B. deer
C. fox
D. wolve
D. wolf
The absence of wolves would have the greatest negative effect on the ecosystem as they play a crucial role in controlling the populations of rabbits, foxes, and deer. Without wolves, the populations of rabbits and foxes could grow uncontrollably, leading to overgrazing and detrimental effects on plant life in the ecosystem. Additionally, without wolves preying on deer, their population could also explode, leading to negative consequences for vegetation and other species in the ecosystem. Wolves help maintain the balance of the ecosystem by keeping prey populations in check.