An ecosystem contains two food chains: A major drought disturbs both food chains.Which one is likely to recover first?
A) The first because it is shorter
B) The second because it is longer
C) The first because it has no top predator
D) The second because it has a top predator
E) Neither

Question

An ecosystem contains two food chains:  A major drought disturbs both food chains.Which one is likely to recover first?
A) The first because it is shorter 
B) The second because it is longer 
C) The first because it has no top predator 
D) The second because it has a top predator 
E) Neither

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Shorter food chains tend to be more stable and resilient to disturbances. In addition, the absence of a top predator in the first food chain means that there is less disruption to the overall ecosystem balance. Therefore, this food chain is more likely to recover first.

An Ecosystem Contains Two Food Chains: a Major Drought