A student is analyzing data that compare the change in the total number of wading bird nests in the Everglades to the change in rainfall. Wading birds feed primarily on fish. Fewer nests were observed in dry years than wet years. What is a reasonable inference about the relationship between wading bird reproductive success and water depth in the Everglades?
(1 point)
Responses
Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food, but this does not affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food, but this does not affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success.
Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success.
Water depth does not affect wading birds’ access to food but does affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
Water depth does not affect wading birds’ access to food but does affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
Water depth does not affect wading birds’ access to food and thus does not affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
Water depth does not affect wading birds’ access to food and thus does not affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
The correct answer is:
Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success.
The most reasonable inference about the relationship between wading bird reproductive success and water depth in the Everglades is that water depth likely affects wading birds' access to food and thus affects their reproductive success.
To determine a reasonable inference about the relationship between wading bird reproductive success and water depth in the Everglades, we need to analyze the given information.
The data shows that fewer nests were observed in dry years compared to wet years. This implies that wading bird reproductive success is influenced by rainfall. However, since wading birds primarily feed on fish, we also need to consider the impact of water depth on their access to food.
A reasonable inference can be made by considering these factors. If water depth is low during dry years, it might become more challenging for wading birds to find fish, their primary food source. As a result, their reproductive success could be negatively affected. On the other hand, in wet years with higher water depth, wading birds may have easier access to fish, which could promote their reproductive success.
So, the most reasonable inference is that water depth likely affects wading birds' access to food and thus affects their reproductive success. Therefore, the correct response is:
"Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success."