The introduction of a predator population of arctic foxes to a small island caused the grassland community of the island to slowly convert to tundra due to changes in nutrient cycling. Which of the following best explains this change in the ecosystem?
A) The grassland habitats were negatively affected by the trampling and burrow-digging of the predator population.
B) The water intake of the predator population reduced water availability for grasses.
C) The predator population consumed a large proportion of the grass-like plants.
D) The predators consumed an herbivore or secondary consumer population that was promoting grass-like habitats.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The introduction of predators likely led to a decrease in the population of herbivores or secondary consumers that were maintaining the grassland by consuming plants that would otherwise lead to a tundra ecosystem. This reduction in herbivory allowed tundra-promoting plants to thrive, changing the ecosystem.

The Introduction of a Predator Population of Arctic Foxes to a Small