A stream runs through a mountain forest. Willow trees grow on each side of the stream. A small deer population feeds on the willows. Mountain trout rely on the willow shade for shelter. The apex predator in the forest is the mountain lion. The mountain lions primarily eat deer, but also eat rodents, and fish, as well as other prey species. Analyze the components of the ecosystem. What is the most likely outcome if the mountain lion population vanishes? Hint- consider the importance of the willow tree.

Question

*
1 point
Nothing will happen.
The trout population will decrease.
The stream will become polluted.
A new predator species will begin eating deer.

Answer 1

If the mountain lion population vanishes, the most likely outcome would be an increase in the deer population. With no natural predator to keep their numbers in check, the deer population would grow rapidly. This increase in deer population would put a strain on the willow trees, as they are the primary food source for the deer. This could potentially lead to overgrazing and damage to the willow trees, impacting the habitat for other species such as the mountain trout. In addition, without the presence of the mountain lion to keep the deer population in check, there could be a cascading effect on the entire ecosystem, leading to imbalances and potentially negative impacts on other species within the ecosystem.