Question

the following predictions describe how white - tailed ptarmigan populations will most likely respond to climate change? choose 2 answers: a as temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely shift up in elevation. b as temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely shift down in elevation. c as temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely migrate to higher latitudes. d as temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely migrate to lower latitudes.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answers, we analyze the response of white - tailed ptarmigan populations to climate - induced temperature increases:

1. Elevation shift: White - tailed ptarmigan are adapted to cooler, alpine - like environments. When temperatures rise, the cooler micro - climates they need are found at higher elevations. So, as temperatures increase, their populations will likely shift up in elevation (Option A is correct and Option B is incorrect).
2. Latitude migration: Higher latitudes (closer to the poles) are generally cooler. As the climate warms, to find suitable cooler habitats, the ptarmigan populations will likely migrate to higher latitudes (Option C is correct and Option D is incorrect).

Answer:

A. As temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely shift up in elevation.
C. As temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely migrate to higher latitudes.