A new community is forming in a region devastated by a years-long drought.Rain has recently returned to the area; in some cases, the rain has been severe enough to cause flooding and rapid runoff.Seeds from a number of plant species enter from the surrounding region and begin to grow.However, periodic storms erode the soil, and many species have difficulty becoming established.This series of events suggests that which factor is most important in determining membership in the new community?
A) Species supply
B) Environmental conditions
C) Interactions with resident species
D) Invasions by outside species
E) Lack of sufficient nutrients

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The return of rain to the area is the trigger for the formation of the new community. However, the severity of the rain causing flooding and rapid runoff suggests a change in the environmental conditions of the area, which would be the most important factor in determining membership in the new community. The erosion caused by storms also indicates that environmental conditions are affecting the ability of certain species to become established. Therefore, B, environmental conditions, is the best choice.

A New Community Is Forming in a Region Devastated by a Years-Long