Question

question 5
2 pts
a catastrophic event killed about 70% of the organisms. which of the following is a possible consequence of the catastrophic event?
a decrease in biodiversity could cause the ecosystem to collapse.
a decrease in biodiversity could lead to an increase in genetic mutations.
a decrease in biodiversity could lead to interbreeding among different species.
a decrease in biodiversity could lead to an increase in predators.

Explanation:

A catastrophic event killing 70% of organisms reduces biodiversity. Reduced biodiversity weakens ecosystem stability, as fewer species disrupt ecological functions and food webs, potentially causing collapse. Other options are incorrect: genetic mutations aren't increased by biodiversity loss, different species rarely interbreed, and predators would decrease with less prey.

Answer:

A. A decrease in biodiversity could cause the ecosystem to collapse.