How do connections in nature lead to unanticipated side effects in the case of amphibian deformities?
A) Increased pollution levels decrease predation, which allows even deformed frogs to survive and reproduce.
B) Increased nutrients in ponds stimulate algal growth and provide the snails with a more abundant food source, which also increases the number of Ribeiroia.
C) The increased pollution kills off the frogs' prey and makes it more difficult for them to survive.
D) Higher levels of pesticides increase the number of eosinophils in frogs.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increased nutrients in ponds lead to more algal growth, which supports a larger population of snails. These snails are hosts for the parasite Ribeiroia, which causes deformities in amphibians. This demonstrates how interconnected ecological factors can lead to unexpected outcomes.

How Do Connections in Nature Lead to Unanticipated Side Effects