A land developer and several ecologists are discussing how a parcel of private land should be developed with housing while saving 20 hectares as natural habitat. The land developer suggests that the 20 hectares be divided into 20 separate 1-hectare areas, spread out across the area. The ecologists suggest that it would be better to have one intact parcel of 20 hectares on one side of the larger area. What is the significance of these different arrangements of the 20 hectares?
A) The single intact parcel would have a smaller amount of edge than the 20 separate parcels.
B) The isolated hectare plots increase the ability of individuals to disperse from one habitat to another.
C) The separate 1-hectare plots are less vulnerable to edge effects.
D) The large plot will create more inbreeding in many species.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Having one intact parcel of 20 hectares would have less amount of edge compared to the 20 separate 1-hectare areas spread out across the area. Edge effects can disrupt the natural habitat and alter the ecological dynamics of the area.

Answer: B
 The isolated 1-hectare plots increase the ability of individuals to disperse from one habitat to another. This can be important for maintaining genetic diversity and reducing the risk of inbreeding.

Answer: C 
 The separate 1-hectare plots are less vulnerable to edge effects, which can include increased exposure to invasive species, changes in temperature, and decreased habitat quality.

Answer: D 
 This is not a correct answer as it is not related to the arrangement of the 20 hectares of natural habitat.

A Land Developer and Several Ecologists Are Discussing How a Parcel