Question

Why might most people think there are more mosquitoes in the world than termites, considering the distribution of termites in tropical forests?

a) Mosquitoes have a higher reproduction rate.

b) Tropical forests have more suitable habitats for mosquitoes.

c) Termites are more visible and noticeable.

d) The chapter's ideas suggest a bias towards mosquito prevalence.

Answer 1

A shift to temperatures above 30°C and humidity below 60% is expected to cause a decrease in mosquito populations in Brazil, as these conditions surpass the upper limit for parous female mosquitoes' reproductive capabilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Effect of High Temperature and Low Humidity on Mosquito Populations

Based on the summarized data from Brazil about mosquito populations, a shift to very hot and very dry conditions would impact the mosquitos as follows:

• a. The mosquito populations would decrease at temperatures above 30°C, as this temperature is an upper limit for the existence of parous females, which are crucial for offspring production. Additionally, below 60% humidity, no significant change in the population would be expected.
• b. If the temperatures rise above 30°C, coupled with drier conditions, the mosquito populations would likely decrease, potentially to a very low level or even reaching zero.

The parous females of mosquitoes are essential for sustaining population levels, as they are the ones who produce viable offspring. In extreme conditions of high temperature and low humidity, their ability to reproduce effectively is compromised, leading to a decline in overall mosquito numbers.

It is important to note that while these are potential scenarios, actual outcomes can vary due to environmental complexity and species adaptability.