Predator/prey relationships are an example of
A) positive feedback, because more predation leads to higher prey populations as they increase reproduction to insure survival.
B) positive feedback, as more prey discourages further predation allowing prey populations to flourish.
C) negative feedback, because prey populations tend to achieve a balance with the number of predators.
D) negative feedback, because more wolves equal fewer elk and people tend to like elks more than wolves.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Predator/prey relationships are a classic example of negative feedback in nature, as fluctuations in one population lead to changes in the other population. As predator numbers increase, prey populations decrease, causing predators to compete amongst themselves for the remaining individuals. As prey numbers decrease, predators may have trouble finding food and their numbers may decrease, allowing the prey population to recover. This type of feedback helps to keep the predator and prey populations in balance over time.

Predator/prey Relationships Are an Example of