Responding to an Increase in Squirrel Population in an Ecosystem
What is a possible functional response to an increase in squirrel population in an ecosystem?
A. More predators of a species that typically consumes squirrels move into the area to take advantage of the increase in prey
B. More predators of a species that typically consumes squirrels are born because the squirrel population is increasing
C. Predators that eat squirrels and other prey are not eating other prey species because of the increase in the population of the squirrel population
D. Species of predators, which had not previously done so, are beginning to use the increasing squirrel population for food
Answer:
A possible functional response to an increase in squirrel population is that more predators of a species that typically consumes squirrels move into the area to take advantage of the increase in prey.
A possible functional response to an increase in the number of a certain squirrel species in an ecosystem could be that more predators of a species that typically consumes squirrels move into the area to take advantage of the increase in prey. This functional response is known as a numerical response, where the predator population increases in direct relation to the increase in prey population. For example, if a certain type of owl typically feeds on squirrels and the squirrel population increases, more owls may migrate or expand their territories to take advantage of the increased food availability.
Functional responses play a crucial role in balancing ecosystems and regulating populations of species. By understanding how predators respond to changes in prey populations, researchers and conservationists can better manage wildlife populations and maintain biodiversity.