Question

the organisms within an established ecosystem interact and form relationships with each other over time. this interdependence allows ecosystems to remain relatively stable for hundred and sometimes thousands of years. which of the following would likely increase the population size of an established plant species?
an increase in available nutrients
a sudden change in climate
an extended drought
introduction of a non - native species

Explanation:

To determine what increases a plant species' population, analyze each option:

• "An increase in available nutrients": Nutrients are essential for plant growth (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus). More nutrients support better growth, reproduction, and survival, increasing population size.
• "A sudden change in climate": Sudden climate shifts (e.g., extreme temp, rainfall) disrupt ecosystems, stressing plants and reducing populations.
• "An extended drought": Drought limits water, a critical resource for plants. It causes wilting, reduced photosynthesis, and death, decreasing populations.
• "Introduction of a non - native species": Non - native species often compete with native plants for resources (space, nutrients, light) or may be invasive, harming the native plant’s population.

Only increased nutrients directly benefit plant growth and population.

Answer:

A. an increase in available nutrients