Being that wolves are a keystone species in North America,after their reintroduction into the Yellowstone ecosystem,which of the following events occurred?
A)The number of predators in the ecosystem was increased.
B)The number of prey in the ecosystem was reduced.
C)The plant composition became more varied and lush.
D)All of the above occurred.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reintroduction of wolves into the Yellowstone ecosystem had a rippling effect on the entire ecosystem. Wolves hunt and kill large herbivores such as elk and deer, which resulted in a reduction of their population. This in turn led to an increase in the plant population and changed the grazing patterns of these animals. As a result, the plant composition became more varied and lush. The increase in plant diversity attracted more herbivores, which then led to an increase in the predator population as well. Therefore, all of the above occurred as a direct or indirect result of the reintroduction of wolves into the Yellowstone ecosystem.

Being That Wolves Are a Keystone Species in North America,after