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.

Question

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)
Responses

The deer population will increase.
The deer population will increase.

The deer population will decrease.
The deer population will decrease.

The stream will become polluted.
The stream will become polluted.

The trout population will decrease.
The trout population will decrease.
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Answer 1

If the mountain lion population vanishes, the most likely outcome is that the deer population will increase. Without the top predator to keep the deer population in check, they will likely overpopulate and have a negative impact on the vegetation in the forest. This could lead to a decrease in the willow trees, which the deer rely on for food, and ultimately affect the entire ecosystem as a whole. Additionally, with an increase in deer population, there may also be a decrease in resources available for other species in the ecosystem, potentially leading to a decrease in the trout population as well.