2. What happens to the population of a species when these resources decrease?
my answer - when the resources decrease the population of the species will be dead
right?????? (please be honest)
Usually, you're right. However, many urban areas have found that some animals, like deer and raccoons flourish even though their habitats and food supplies have disappeared. They have adapted to humans and their foods.
thank you!
i'll include that in my answer
You're welcome. :-)
When the resources decrease, it can have significant effects on the population of a species. While it is true that some individuals may die due to a lack of resources, it is important to consider the broader impact on the entire population.
Here is a more comprehensive answer:
When resources decrease, the availability of essential elements such as food, water, shelter, or suitable habitat becomes limited. This scarcity can result in various effects on the population:
1. Competition: As resources become scarce, individuals of the species must compete more intensely to acquire enough resources for survival. This competition can lead to increased aggression, territorial disputes, or hierarchical structures within the population.
2. Reduced Reproduction: A decline in resources can affect the reproductive capacity of the species. This could lead to a decrease in mating opportunities, lower fertility rates, or fewer successful births.
3. Migration or Dispersal: In response to resource scarcity, individuals may migrate to other areas to find more favorable conditions or suitable resources. This movement can result in changes in population distribution or even lead to the colonization of new habitats if available.
4. Decline in Population Size: If the resources continue to decrease and become severely limited, individuals may struggle to survive, and some may die. This can lead to a decrease in population size over time.
5. Adaptation or Extinction: Depending on the species' ability to adapt to the changing resource availability, populations may evolve characteristics that allow them to survive with fewer resources. However, if a species cannot adapt quickly enough or if the decrease in resources is too severe, it may face the risk of extinction.
It's essential to note that while some individuals may die due to resource scarcity, the population's overall response can be complex and involve a combination of factors. Understanding the specific characteristics, behavior, and ecological interactions of the species in question can provide more insights into the population's fate.