Question

A researcher examined the response of dandelions to herbivory by rabbits. She finds that in a greenhouse with no rabbits, there is variation in the number of seeds produced by different dandelion plants. She then mimics herbivory by rabbits and finds that dandelions that have been "eaten" by rabbits produce more seeds. From this she concludes:___________
a. The number of seeds of a dandelion is a genetically variable trait
b. Dandelion seed number is a constitutive defensive response to rabbit herbivory
c. Rabbits cause a decline in the number of dandelion seeds
d. Rabbits alter the genetics of dandelions as they feed on them

Answer 1

Answer:

b.

Explanation:

Based on the information provided within the question it can be said that from this info the researcher can conclude that Dandelion seed number is a constitutive defensive response to rabbit herbivory. This is mainly due to the fact that Dandelions that have been eaten by the rabbits have produced more seeds, meaning that the Dandelions defense mechanism produces more seeds when attacked in order to prevent the flower's extinction.