Question

scenario: lake pontchartrain is home to many different species, including small fish that eat insects (stoneflies), larger native fish like salmon that eat the smaller fish, and heron birds that hunt the larger fish. there are also seals that rely on salmon and small fish for food. recently, a new type of fish was accidentally introduced into the lake. this fish has no natural predators in the area and eats the same food as the small native fish. local fishermen and environmentalists are concerned that if this invasive fish continues to spread, it could harm the entire food web of the lake. question: 1. look at the food web above, how can an invasive species like the new fish affect the food web in the lake? give two specific examples and explain the negative consequences. (1 point) - example one with an explanation (1 point) - example one with an explanation

Explanation:

1. Competition for food: The invasive fish eats the same food as small native fish (like insects eaten by stoneflies). This reduces the food available for native fish, leading to a decline in their population as they struggle to find enough food to survive and reproduce.
2. Predation - altering predator - prey dynamics: If the invasive fish has no natural predators, its population can grow rapidly. This can lead to over - predation of small native fish species. For example, if the invasive fish preys on the small native fish that salmon also eat, it can disrupt the food source for salmon, potentially causing a decline in the salmon population.

Answer:

1. Competition for food: The invasive fish competes with small native fish for food (such as insects), reducing food availability for natives.
2. Predation - altering predator - prey dynamics: With no natural predators, the invasive fish may over - prey on small native fish, disrupting the food source for larger native fish like salmon.