Which is a likely biotic factor limiting songbird distribution in Hawaii to alpine habitats?
A) oxygen content
B) temperature
C) insects causing fatal diseases in songbirds at lower altitudes
D) moisture

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The likely biotic factor limiting songbird distribution in Hawaii to alpine habitats is insects causing fatal diseases in songbirds at lower altitudes. This is because Hawaii has experienced a significant loss of native birds due to introduced avian diseases, primarily from mosquitoes carrying avian malaria and avipoxvirus, which are prevalent at lower altitudes. These diseases are devastating to bird populations that have no natural immunity, which includes many native Hawaiian forest birds. Therefore, songbirds are restricted to higher altitudes in order to avoid exposure to these diseases.

Which Is a Likely Biotic Factor Limiting Songbird Distribution in Hawaii