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Question #46090
The Question
In a large tropical continent, the species-area relationship for endemic frugivorous birds yields a Z-value of 1.15. To counter rapid anthropogenic deforestation, authorities strictly protect a few isolated, disconnected patches of high endemism as 'Biodiversity Hotspots'. Based on the equation log S = log C + Z log A, which of the following is the most ecologically accurate prediction regarding these birds?
Options
- A.
Species richness will be fully preserved as hotspots inherently maintain high endemism regardless of the surrounding landscape matrix.
- B.
A massive decline in species richness will occur because the steep Z-value (1.15) dictates that large area reductions disproportionately eliminate species when habitat connectivity is lost.
- C.
The Z-value within the isolated patches will immediately increase beyond 1.2, triggering rapid sympatric speciation to replace the lost biodiversity.
- D.
The extinction rate will be negligible because the Z-value for small areas is typically 0.1 to 0.2, making them highly resilient to further habitat fragmentation.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Botanical_Gardens|Alien_Species_Invasion_Impacts|Rivet_Popper_Hypothesis
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize that 'Hotspots = maximum protection' and 'Z-value of small areas = 0.1 to 0.2'.
The trap lies in failing to synthesize that fragmenting a large area (Z=1.15) into small, isolated areas forces the ecosystem to crash down the steep species-area curve.
Protecting isolated patches without ecological corridors cannot override the mathematical extinction debt predicted by a high Z-value.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biodiversity and Conservation - Class 12 |
| Concept | Ex-situ Conservation Techniques |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |