Question

20 multiple choice 2 points what was the primary factor leading to the reindeer population collapse on st. matthew island? predator introduction by humans a sudden volcanic eruption competition with introduced species overgrazing that destroyed the available lichen food source

Explanation:

In 1944, 29 reindeer were introduced to St. Matthew Island. With no predators and abundant lichen (their main food source), the population grew rapidly. By 1963, there were about 6000 reindeer. However, the over - grazing by this large population destroyed the lichen. In the winter of 1963 - 1964, most reindeer died due to lack of food. There was no predator introduction by humans (no new predators were added), no sudden volcanic eruption (not a factor in this event), and no competition with introduced species (the main issue was self - induced food depletion).

Answer:

Overgrazing that destroyed the available lichen food source.