Question

given the information above, which of the following predictions describe how rock ptarmigan populations will most likely respond to climate change? choose 2 answers: a as temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely shift down in elevation. b 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 lower latitudes. d as temperatures increase due to climate change, populations will likely migrate to higher latitudes.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answers, we analyze the responses of organisms to climate change:

• Option A: As temperatures increase, lower elevations become warmer, so moving down in elevation would not help the rock ptarmigan (which likely prefers cooler temperatures) find a suitable climate. So A is incorrect.
• Option B: Higher elevations are generally cooler. As temperatures rise, moving up in elevation allows the rock ptarmigan to access cooler habitats, which is a common response to climate - induced warming. So B is correct.
• Option C: Lower latitudes are generally warmer. Migrating to lower latitudes would expose the rock ptarmigan to even warmer temperatures, which is not suitable for a species that may be adapted to cooler conditions. So C is incorrect.
• Option D: Higher latitudes are generally cooler. As the climate warms, migrating to higher latitudes (where temperatures are more similar to the original, cooler habitats of the rock ptarmigan) is a typical response of species to climate change. So D is correct.

Answer:

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