Question

If all of the aphids were killed off due to the spraying of pesticides, what would happen to the number of toads this ecosystem could support?

A) There would be more toads because less snakes would survive.
B) There would be more toads because more roses would survive.
C) There would be fewer toads because fewer beetles would survive.
D) There would be fewer toads because more sliders would survive.

Answer 1

The spraying of pesticides and the subsequent eradication of aphids would most likely lead to a decrease in toad populations, as their food sources would be significantly diminished.

Step-by-step explanation:

If all of the aphids were killed off due to the spraying of pesticides, it is likely that there would be fewer toads this ecosystem could support. The rationale behind this prediction is that aphids are a significant food source for many small insects and other creatures in the ecosystem.

When aphids are eliminated, the animals that prey on them, such as beetles, would have their numbers decline due to a lack of food. As a consequence, toads, which may feed on these insects, would also suffer a reduction in their food sources leading to a decrease in their numbers.

The reduction in prey availability could make it difficult for toad populations to sustain themselves, thus potentially causing a decline in their numbers over time.

Toads prey on beetles, and if their population declines, it would result in a decrease in the number of toads that the ecosystem can support.