Question

a field biologist observed and recorded the ground squirrel population in a forest ecosystem over a 40 year period. during which years is the squirrels ecosystem most stable? a years 1 - 9 b years 10 - 30 c years 31 - 37 d years 38 - 42

Explanation:

Step1: Understand ecosystem stability

Ecosystem stability in terms of population means the population size remains relatively constant over time.

Step2: Analyze each time - period

• Years 1 - 9: The population is increasing (from 100 to around 400). So, it is not stable.
• Years 10 - 30: There is a large - scale population change (either increasing or a sharp decline). So, it is not stable.
• Years 31 - 37: The population shows a very small range of fluctuations (stays close to a low value). This indicates a relatively stable population size.
• Years 38 - 42: There is a sharp increase in population. So, it is not stable.

Answer:

C. years 31 - 37