Trees in rainforests have high tree species richness, but low density. In deciduous forests the pattern is the opposite. Which of the following is NOT a plausible explanation for this pattern?
A)Many deciduous tree species are pollinated by wind, so individuals must be more closely spaced to one another for fertilization to occur.
B)Organisms that are adapted to the variability in higher latitudes are able to achieve higher population sizes.
C)Because there are fewer organisms that can adapt to higher latitudes, there are fewer "pest" species that could easily move between trees in close proximity.
D)There are fewer species in temperate regions because the number of trees per hectare is lower than in tropical rainforests.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The explanation given in choice D is not accurate. There are actually more tree species in tropical rainforests despite having lower density per hectare.

Trees in Rainforests Have High Tree Species Richness, but Low