A North American grassland is usually more productive when it contains diverse plant communities. How does the biodiversity of a North American grassland affect its sustainability?
A.
The biodiversity allows all plant communities to survive when the ecosystem experiences severe weather.
B.
The biodiversity prevents all plant communities from surviving when the ecosystem experiences a heat wave.
C.
The biodiversity prevents some plant communities from surviving when the ecosystem experiences consistent weather patterns.
D.
The biodiversity allows some plant communities to survive when the ecosystem experiences slightly different weather patterns.
D.
The biodiversity allows some plant communities to survive when the ecosystem experiences slightly different weather patterns.
D. The biodiversity allows some plant communities to survive when the ecosystem experiences slightly different weather patterns.
The correct answer is D. The biodiversity of a North American grassland allows some plant communities to survive when the ecosystem experiences slightly different weather patterns.
Explanation:
In a North American grassland, biodiversity refers to the variety of different plant species present within the ecosystem. When there is a high level of biodiversity, it means that there are many different types of plants coexisting in the grassland. This diversity is beneficial for the sustainability of the grassland.
One key advantage of having diverse plant communities in a grassland is that different species have different tolerances and requirements for environmental conditions. For example, some plant species may be more resistant to drought, while others may be more tolerant of wet conditions. When the grassland experiences slightly different weather patterns, such as variations in rainfall or temperature, the diverse plant communities can adapt and respond differently to these changes.
This ability of different plant species to survive and thrive under slightly different weather patterns helps to maintain the overall productivity and stability of the grassland ecosystem. If all plant communities had the exact same requirements and tolerances, a change in weather conditions could potentially lead to the loss of all plant species in the grassland. However, with a diverse range of plants, some species are more likely to be able to withstand and adapt to the changing conditions, ensuring that the grassland continues to function and support various ecological processes.
Therefore, the biodiversity of a North American grassland affects its sustainability by allowing some plant communities to survive when the ecosystem experiences slightly different weather patterns.