Biomanipulation can best be described as
A) removing many of the next higher trophic level organisms so that the struggling trophic level below can recover.
B) a means of reversing the effects of pollution by applying antidote chemicals that have a neutralizing effect on the community.
C) an example of how one would use the bottom-up model for community restoration.
D) adjusting the numbers of each of the trophic levels back to the numbers that they were before human disturbance.
E) monitoring and adjusting the nutrient and energy flow through a community with new technologies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Biomanipulation involves removing a large number of predators or herbivores in order to allow for lower trophic levels to recover. This is most commonly done in aquatic ecosystems where overfishing or pollution has disrupted the balance of the community. Choice B is incorrect because biomanipulation does not involve applying antidote chemicals. Choice C is incorrect because biomanipulation does not necessarily follow the bottom-up model. Choice D is incorrect because biomanipulation does not aim to restore the community to its original state but rather to improve its balance. Choice E is incorrect because while monitoring may be a part of biomanipulation, it does not involve adjusting nutrient and energy flow through new technologies.

Biomanipulation Can Best Be Described as