Question

in a forest ecosystem, the food web includes plants, insects, birds, snakes, and hawks. if all of the snakes were eliminated from the ecosystem, what would most likely happen to species diversity over time? a) species diversity would increase because hawks and birds would have more food. b) species diversity would decrease because the bird populations would grow too large, reducing insect populations. c) species diversity would remain the same because only one species was removed. d) species diversity would increase because removing predators always benefits ecosystems.

Explanation:

In a food - web, snakes preying on birds helps keep bird populations in check. Without snakes, bird populations may grow unchecked. This would lead to over - predation on insects, reducing insect populations. With a reduction in insect populations, other species that rely on insects may be affected, leading to a decrease in species diversity.

Answer:

B. Species diversity would decrease because the bird populations would grow too large, reducing insect populations.