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)
A. Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food, but this does not affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
B. Water depth does not affect wading birds’ access to food and thus does not affect wading birds’ reproductive success.
C. Water depth does not affect wading birds’ access to food but does affect wading birds’ reproductive success
D. Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success.
D. Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success.
D. Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success.
To answer this question, we need to analyze the information provided. The question states that fewer wading bird nests were observed in dry years compared to wet years. It also mentions that wading birds feed primarily on fish.
Based on this information, we can infer that the food availability for wading birds is related to water depth. In wet years, there is likely more rainfall leading to higher water levels, which provides better access to fish for the wading birds. Conversely, in dry years, there is likely less rainfall and lower water levels, making it harder for wading birds to find fish.
Since wading birds rely on fish as their primary food source, a decrease in the availability of fish due to lower water levels is likely to impact their reproductive success. Therefore, the most reasonable inference would be:
D. Water depth likely affects wading birds’ access to food and thus affects wading birds’ reproductive success.