Question

1. which of the following best explains the change in the moose population from 1995 to 1997?

population of wolves and moose on isle royale, 1960 - 2005
the large moose population led to a significant increase in the wolf population from 1995 to 1996, leading to increased predation of moose by wolves.
the high density of moose in the population led to a large number of moose emigrating from the island in search of mates and territory.
plants in the area could not support the large population of moose in 1995.
the small number of wolves on the island could not support the large number of moose in 1995.

Explanation:

In a predator - prey relationship, an increase in the prey (moose) population can lead to an increase in the predator (wolf) population due to more available food. The increased number of wolves then preys more on the moose, causing a decline in the moose population. This is consistent with the first option which shows the large moose population leading to a wolf population increase and then increased moose predation.

Answer:

The large moose population led to a significant increase in the wolf population from 1995 to 1996, leading to increased predation of moose by wolves.