Question

the graph shows the percentage of crops pollinated by honey bees in the united states. it has been estimated that more than 10 million beehives were lost in 2013 in the united states due to colony collapse disorder caused by the widespread use of pesticides. how will the decrease in the honey bee population affect the ecosystem? it will increase the percentages of almond and apple crops because insects other than honey bees will help pollinate these crops. it will increase the percentages of cotton and orange crops because these are less dependent on honey bee pollination. it will decrease the percentages of almond and apple crops because lesser numbers of honey bees are available for pollination. it will decrease the percentages of cotton and orange crops because the populations of other insects will also decline along with honey bees.

Explanation:

From the graph, almond and apple crops have high percentages of pollination by honey - bees. A decrease in honey - bee population means fewer honey - bees for pollination, which will likely decrease the percentages of these crops that are pollinated. Cotton and orange crops have lower percentages of pollination by honey - bees, so their pollination is less affected by the decline in honey - bee population.

Answer:

C. It will decrease the percentages of almond and apple crops because lesser numbers of honey bees are available for pollination.