Question

highly specialized species tend to evolve on islands because of the environmental conditions and resource availability. based on the theory of island biogeography, which of the following would most likely experience the greatest decline of specialist species if an invasive species emigrated from the mainland? a a small island a far distance from the mainland b a small island in close proximity to the mainland c a large island a far distance from the mainland d a large island in close proximity to the mainland

Explanation:

• Island size: Smaller islands have fewer resources and less diverse habitats. Specialist species on small islands have narrower niches and less room to adapt or find alternative resources.
• Distance from mainland: Islands close to the mainland are more likely to receive invasive species. Invasive species can out - compete specialist species for resources (e.g., food, nesting sites). A small island close to the mainland has both the vulnerability of small size (limited resources for specialists) and high invasion pressure (due to proximity to the mainland source of invasives).

Answer:

B. A small island in close proximity to the mainland