Question

the image below shows an aquatic food web.
what would most likely happen in this ecosystem if the shark population significantly increased?
a. the population of dolphins would increase.
b. the population of bluefish would decrease.
c. the population of algae would increase.
d. the population of crustaceans would decrease.

Explanation:

In an ecosystem, if the shark population (a predator) increases, it will consume more of its prey (dolphins and bluefish). Since bluefish is preyed upon by sharks, an increase in sharks would lead to a decrease in bluefish population. Dolphins are also preyed by sharks, but the question is about the most likely direct impact. Algae is at the base and crustaceans are lower - level consumers. The main direct effect here is on the bluefish (as sharks eat them).

Answer:

B. The population of bluefish would decrease.