Question

7. In the Everglades, a system of canals and levees diverts water to urban areas and the Everglades National Park. This water management system has caused changes in

natural flow of the water during the wet and dry season. Wading birds are especially sensitive to wet and dry seasonal changes. How have water cycle disruptions MOST
affected wading birds?
O The release of water dilutes food sources for their young.
O The higher water levels allow longer-legged birds to survive and reproduce.
O The water quality for feeding has been improved by runoff.
The reduced salinity results in more eggs being laid.

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

The water cycle disruptions have most affected wading birds by:The release of water dilutes food sources for their young.This is because wading birds depend on the natural flow of water to bring in fish and other small aquatic organisms which are a vital part of their diet. When the water cycle is disrupted by the canals and levees, the water flow changes, and the amount and timing of these organisms can be impacted, making it harder for wading birds to find food for their young. Therefore, option (a) is the correct answer.Option (b) is incorrect because longer-legged birds are not necessarily more adapted to survive in higher water levels.Option (c) is incorrect because water quality may not necessarily improve due to runoff.Option (d) is incorrect because reduced salinity may not be a direct cause of increased egg-laying.