a stream runs through a mountain forest. willow trees grow on each side of the stream. a small deer population feeds on the willows. mountain trout rely on the willow shade for shelter. the apex predator in the forest is the mountain lion. the mountain lions primarily eat deer, but also eat rodents, and fish, as well as other prey species. analyze the components of the ecosystem. what is the most likely outcome if the mountain lion population vanishes? (1 point)
The components of this ecosystem include the stream, willow trees, deer, mountain trout, rodents, fish, mountain lions, and other prey species. Each component plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.
If the mountain lion population vanishes, there would likely be a significant increase in the deer population as they no longer have a predator to keep their numbers in check. This would result in overgrazing of the willow trees, leading to a decrease in their numbers and potentially affecting the habitat of the mountain trout. Additionally, with the absence of the mountain lions, the population of rodents and other prey species may also increase, leading to potential imbalances in the ecosystem.
Overall, the disappearance of the mountain lion population would likely disrupt the delicate balance of the ecosystem, leading to potential cascading effects on the other components of the ecosystem.