Select the statement(s) that accurately describe what is likely to happen as a result of removing grasshoppers from the food web. The squirrels and blue birds could increase in numbers since they have less competition for food. Some secondary consumers could leave the ecosystem to look for food elsewhere. The food web will not be affected. The numbers of frogs, snakes, and mice could decrease due to loss of food. The tertiary consumers will begin eating producers
Answer (1)
1. "The squirrels and blue birds could increase in numbers since they have less competition for food."This could be true if squirrels and blue birds compete with grasshoppers for the same food (like plants). Removing grasshoppers means more food available for them, so their numbers might increase.2. "Some secondary consumers could leave the ecosystem to look for food elsewhere."This is possible because if grasshoppers are a food source for some secondary consumers, those consumers might struggle to find enough food and move away.3. "The food web will not be affected."This is false. Removing a species like grasshoppers usually affects many parts of the food web, disrupting the balance.4. "The numbers of frogs, snakes, and mice could decrease due to loss of food."This is true because these animals may rely on grasshoppers as part of their diet. Losing grasshoppers means less food, so their populations could drop.5. "The tertiary consumers will begin eating producers."This is unlikely-/false because tertiary consumers are usually carnivores and do not typically eat producers (plants). They would likely seek other prey instead.
