A scientist is studying the population of a particular species of beetle in an ecosystem. The beetles currently have an estimate
d population of 11,500 individuals on a wildlife preserve of 115 hectares. (One hectare is equal to 2.47 acres of land.) The scientist calculates the carrying capacity at 14,600 individuals. PART B
What will likely happen to the population of these beetles during the next year if the resource level stays the same? Explain your answer.
PART C
These beetles have a uniform distribution. In year 1, how many beetles are there per hectare? How many beetles per hectare were there in the year the beetles reached carrying capacity? Round up or down to the nearest whole number, if necessary.
PART D
During the year the beetles reached carrying capacity, a flood in the region decreased the population to about 77 beetles per hectare. What is the total estimated population of the beetles after this disaster? What percentage of the carrying capacity is the population now?
PART E
Over a period of time, the beetles once again reached carrying capacity and sustained it for many years. However, pollution from a nearby factory leaked into the ecosystem, making 55 hectares of the land uninhabitable to the beetles. Predict how the estimated carrying capacity will change and explain your reasoning for your estimation.
