In a certain ecosystem, field mice are preyed on by snakes and hawks. The entry of wild dogs into the system adds another predator of the mice. The most likely short-term result of this addition is
A)an increase in snake population.
B)a tendency for hawks to prey on the dogs.
C)a reduction in numbers of mice.
D)migration of the hawks to another ecosystem.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The addition of another predator, wild dogs, will increase the competition for food and resources among the predators. As a result, the number of mice is likely to decrease as they face more pressure from multiple predators. This decrease in mice population may cause a decrease in snake population if they do not find alternate sources of food, but it is unlikely that the hawks will change their preying habits or migrate to another ecosystem.

In a Certain Ecosystem, Field Mice Are Preyed on by Snakes