Question

question 37 of 50
look at the ocean system described below.
plankton → sardines → swordfish → shark
what will most likely happen to this ecosystem if the swordfish are killed by a virus?
a. the sardine population will decrease.
b. it will be easier for sharks to find food.
c. it will be harder for sardines to survive.
d. the shark population will decrease.

Explanation:

In the given food chain (plankton → sardines → swordfish → shark), swordfish are the prey of sharks. If swordfish are killed by a virus, sharks will have less food available. According to the basic principles of food chains and predator - prey relationships, a reduction in the prey population (swordfish) will lead to a decrease in the predator population (sharks) over time as there is insufficient food to support the same number of sharks.

• Option A: If swordfish are removed, sardines (prey of swordfish) will have less predation pressure, so their population is likely to increase, not decrease.
• Option B: Since swordfish (a food source for sharks) are dying, it will be harder for sharks to find food, not easier.
• Option C: With the removal of swordfish (which prey on sardines), sardines will face less predation, so it will be easier for sardines to survive, not harder.

Answer:

D. The shark population will decrease.