Question

question 1 (1 point)
the graph shows the population sizes of two species of fox living in the appalachian mountains.
which statement provides the most logical explanation for the changes shown?

a the red fox and the grey fox evolved to form a mutualistic relationship.

b the grey fox population evolved adaptations that made it well suited for survival in that habitat.

c the red fox population is better adapted for survival in that particular habitat.

d the grey fox relies on the red fox as its primary food source.

Explanation:

• Option a: Mutualistic relationships benefit both species, but the graph shows one population increasing and the other decreasing, so this is incorrect.
• Option b: The grey fox population is increasing while the red fox population is decreasing. This suggests the grey fox evolved adaptations that make it well - suited for survival in that habitat, outcompeting the red fox.
• Option c: If the red fox were better adapted, its population would not be decreasing while the grey fox's is increasing.
• Option d: If the grey fox relied on the red fox as a primary food source, the grey fox population would likely decrease as the red fox population decreases, which is not the case here.

Answer:

b. The grey fox population evolved adaptations that made it well suited for survival in that habitat.