Refer to the graph, showing the interaction between the elk population and the presence or absence of wolves in Yellowstone National Park. Elk culling (hunting by humans) occurred until 1968.Based on this information, what factor had the most influence on the population of elk between 1926 and 1968?
A) Wolf predation
B) Culling by humans
C) Predation by both wolves and humans
D) Lack of predation
E) A factor other than predation

Question

Refer to the graph, showing the interaction between the elk population and the presence or absence of wolves in Yellowstone National Park.  Elk culling (hunting by humans) occurred until 1968.Based on this information, what factor had the most influence on the population of elk between 1926 and 1968?
A) Wolf predation 
B) Culling by humans 
C) Predation by both wolves and humans 
D) Lack of predation 
E) A factor other than predation

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The graph shows a significant decrease in elk population between 1926 and 1968, which correlates with the period of elk culling by humans. While wolf predation also had an impact on the elk population, it was not present during the entire period of decline, as wolves were largely absent from Yellowstone during the mid-1900s. Therefore, the factor that had the most influence on the elk population during this period was culling by humans.

Refer to the Graph, Showing the Interaction Between the Elk