Question

Do to an underwater eruption in the Gulf of Mexico, the stable isotope ratio of nutrients in water is different on the west and east coast of Florida. Aquatic plants that develop in water incorporate the isotopes in their tissues, which are then consumed by manatees. Using these isotopes to look at what portion of the diet of manatees was comprised of plants from the west vs. east coast of Florida (sampled by plucking some manatee whiskers to analyze) - what level would a study of this kind be?

a) Organismal ecology
b) Population ecology
c) Community ecology
d) Ecosystem ecology
e) Landscape ecology

Answer 1

The use of stable isotope ratios to determine dietary sources of manatees is an example of ecosystem ecology, which examines nutrient and energy flows in environments. The correct option is d).

Step-by-step explanation:

The question of determining the portion of a manatee's diet that is comprised of plants from the west versus east coast of Florida using stable isotope ratios falls under the category of ecosystem ecology.

This field studies the flow of energy and nutrients through local environments, including organisms, their physical environment, and the ways these components interact to form a holistic system.

By analyzing the isotopes in manatee whiskers, scientists gain insights into their diet and consequently, how nutrients circulate within the ecosystem, which includes the plants and animals, as well as the soil, water, and climate of a given area. Option d) is the correct one.