Question

(04.03 HC)A scientist records the populations of two species over a period of time.

Both populations lived in the same ecosystem and experienced normal growth
patterns that eventually resulted in both reaching carrying capacity. However,
conditions in the ecosystem changed. In the new conditions, Population 1 was
unaffected while Population 2 decreased. Based on this, the scientist claims both
populations competed for the same food source and Population 1 was more
aggressive than Population 2 in searching for that food. Based on the data stated;
describe other possible interpretations of the data and why this scientist's claim is
invalid. (5 points)

Answer 1

The likely explanation is that population 1 had traits which were more favorable to its survival than population 2's in the new conditions. It wouldn't have to do with food competition, but the traits they already have that may or may not be conducive to their survival in the new conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Let me explain. Say a drought occurred on an island. Population 2 relied on eating bugs that lived in the green grasses. Population 1 relied on eating cactus fruit, which is drought-resistant. Say that because of the drought, population 2 started to decrease since there were less bugs to eat because the grasses dried up. Population 1 is unaffected because the bugs they eat were still in abundance.

This all has to do with the concept of natural selection. Species with traits that are good for their environment will likely do well unless a change in conditions occurs which makes their traits no longer favorable.

Hope that makes sense!