Which of the following could qualify as a top-down control on a grassland community?
A) limitation of plant biomass by rainfall amount
B) influence of temperature on competition among plants
C) influence of soil nutrients on the abundance of grasses versus wildflowers
D) effect of grazing intensity by bison on plant species diversity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Top-down control refers to how predators or consumers influence the structure and population dynamics of ecosystems, including communities within them. In this case, the grazing intensity by bison (a consumer) directly affects plant species diversity, making it a top-down control. Choices A, B, and C describe bottom-up controls, which are determined by abiotic factors or resources.

Which of the Following Could Qualify as a Top-Down Control