Researchers are beginning a study of a field mouse population.To determine the best procedures to use for the mark-recapture method, they try different traps, baits, marking methods, and time intervals between first and second captures.In the first five trials, they have calculated these estimates of population size: 96, 172, 169, 168, and 174 mice.Which trial condition might account for the low estimate of 96 mice in the first trial?
A) Marked mice avoided being captured a second time.
B) Marked mice were unable to feed as well as unmarked mice.
C) Predators targeted the marked mice more than the unmarked mice.
D) The second capture took place before marked mice had completely mixed in.
E) Many mice were able to enter and leave traps without being captured.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The low estimate of 96 mice in the first trial could be due to the fact that the second capture took place before the marked mice had completely mixed in, resulting in a biased sample that did not accurately represent the entire population.

Researchers Are Beginning a Study of a Field Mouse Population