Question

A scientist is studying the effect of climate change on a population of fur seals living on an island off the coast of Alaska. Fur seals are carnivores that hunt fish in the ocean. They are also major prey for sharks and whales. Which factor would NOT decrease the carrying capacity of the fur seals' environment? a the population of predators b human pollution c the population of prey d destruction of their habitat

Answer 1

Answer:

A

Explanation:

The only factor that would not decrease the carrying capacity of the fur seal's environment is the population of predators.

The carrying capacity is defined as the maximum number of individuals of a species an environment can sustain based on the resources available. Hence,   only a fluctuation in the resources available in the environment of the fur seal can affect the carrying capacity.

Pollution and destruction of the habitat of the fur seal would limit the resources available to the animals and as such, limit the carrying capacity. A fluctuation in the population of prey available for the population of fur seals would also affect the carrying capacity.

The only factor that has no bearing on the carrying capacity of the fur seal's environment is the population of predators. Predators have the capacity to reduce the population of fur seals but not affect the carrying capacity for fur seals.

The correct option is, therefore, A.