Question 8
Scientists are observing a population of fruit flies in a contained environment. The scientists provide the fruit flies with the same amount of cornmeal and yeast extract each week. The graph shows the growth of the fruit fly population over time.
Which statement BEST describes what is affecting the population of fruit flies occurring in region X on the graph?
a
The fruit flies are affected by density-independent limiting factors, resulting in lower quality nutrients being available.
b
The fruit flies are affected by density-dependent limiting factors, causing an increase in mortality and migration.
c
The fruit flies are affected by density-independent limiting factors, resulting in a decreased rate of reproduction.
d
The fruit flies are affected by density-dependent limiting factors, causing them to compete for food and space.
d
The fruit flies are affected by density-dependent limiting factors, causing them to compete for food and space.