Variation in species richness of terrestrial species in North America correlates most strongly with estimates of
A)actual or potential evapotranspiration.
B)annual temperature.
C)solar radiation.
D)precipitation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Actual or potential evapotranspiration measures the amount of water vapor that is released into the atmosphere through evaporation and plant transpiration. Regions with high evapotranspiration rates are typically warmer and receive more precipitation, which can support a greater diversity of plant and animal species. Therefore, estimates of actual or potential evapotranspiration are a strong predictor of species richness in North America.

Variation in Species Richness of Terrestrial Species in North America