Question

Lynx feed on rabbits, and the growth curves for these two species fluctuate together. This relationship is an example of a(n) Select one:

a. S-shaped growth curve.
b. J-shaped growth curve.
c. irregular fluctuations. tightly linked cycle.

Answer 1

The growth curves for lynx and rabbits that fluctuate together represent predator-prey dynamics, with lynx being the predator and rabbits the prey. This tightly linked cycle of population growth and decline represents a classic example of predator-prey interaction, best exemplified by the historical cycling patterns of lynx and snowshoe hares in Northern Ontario.

Step-by-step explanation:

The relationship wherein lynx feed on rabbits, and their growth curves fluctuate together, exemplifies predator-prey dynamics. These fluctuations are tightly linked cycles where the prey population (rabbits) increases leading to a subsequent increase in the predator population (lynx). This is followed by a decline in the prey population due to increased predation, which in turn causes a decline in the predator population due to food scarcity. Hence, the correct answer is not the S-shaped or J-shaped growth curve, nor irregular fluctuations, but rather a tightly linked cycle of respective population sizes of prey and predators.

These cycles are typically observed in wildlife population studies, such as the historical pattern of cycling between lynx and snowshoe hares in Northern Ontario, which has been documented through nearly 200 years of trapping data. The approximately 10-year cycle, with the lynx population lagging 1-2 years behind the hare population, demonstrates how interconnected and dependent these populations are on each other's numbers for their survival and growth rates.

Answer 2

Option D, tightly linked

Step-by-step explanation:

The population of both rabbit and Lynx is tightly linked which means that if the population of rabbit is affected negatively, the population of Lynx will also get affected negatively.

In general, Lynx gets its nutrition from rabbit by feeding on them when they are in sufficient number. When the rabbits become scarce, Lynx starts feeding on alternative food sources such as mice, carrion etc. but these food type cannot provide sufficient nourishment to the Lynx and hence the population of Lynx also reduces as some of them die because of starvation while the remaining move to different areas in search of food.

Hence, option D is correct