Abandoned turtle nest cavities are often used as nesting sites for species unable to dig their own cavities. If turtles are driven to extinction, which of the following is the most likely effect on these other species?

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Species that depend on abandoned turtle nest cavities for nesting would have fewer available nesting sites, which would likely lead to a decline in their populations and less successful reproduction. While some species may adapt over time, the immediate impact of turtle extinction would likely have negative consequences for these dependent species. Option A is unlikely as different species have different ecological and physiological requirements, so it is not necessarily feasible for other species to simply adopt the turtle lifestyle. Option B is possible over the long term but is unlikely to occur immediately. Option D is also possible over the long term, but it is important to note that evolution is a slow process and not all species are capable of evolving new adaptations quickly enough to deal with the loss of a critical resource like nesting sites.

Abandoned Turtle Nest Cavities Are Often Used as Nesting Sites