Question

Number of rotifers

4500+
4000-
3500-
3000-
2500-
2000-
1500-
1000-
500-
Key x Rotifers alone (flask X)
• Rotifers when living with
water fleas (flask Z)
0**
0
2
765
4 6
8
10
X
X
12
12 14
X X
14 16 18

Analyze the graph and identify some factors that may contribute to the ratifier population leveling off in the absence of water fleas. Explain your answer in 1 to 2 sentences.

Answer 1

From the given graph, we can observe that the rotifer population levels off when there are no water fleas present. This could be due to factors such as competition for resources (limited food or space) among the rotifers, predation by other organisms, or the buildup of waste products that may negatively affect rotifer growth and reproduction, leading to population stabilization.