According to bottom-up and top-down control models of community organization, which of the following expressions would imply that an increase in the size of a carnivore (C) population would negatively impact its prey (P) population, but not vice versa? In this particular scenario, the arrows between species indicate the direction of control between the populations of organisms.
A) P ← C
B) P → C
C) C ↔ P
D) P ← C → P

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a bottom-up control model, the direction of control flows from lower to higher trophic levels, whereas in a top-down control model, control flows from higher to lower trophic levels. The expression "P ← C" indicates that the carnivore (C) population has a direct negative impact on its prey (P) population, which aligns with the top-down control model. This expression does not imply any control or impact from the prey on the carnivore, fitting the scenario described.

According to Bottom-Up and Top-Down Control Models of Community Organization