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Question #46667
The Question
An ecologist monitoring an isolated island ecosystem notes that following a massive influx of alien plant and animal species, the Z-value (slope of regression) of the species-area relationship transiently shifted from 0.15 to 0.35. Based on ecological principles, which of the following is the most likely consequence of this event?
Options
- A.
The island ecosystem has achieved the functional stability of a large continent, as indicated by the steepening of the regression line.
- B.
A transient increase in species richness will enhance the gross primary productivity and trophic efficiency of the native food web.
- C.
A temporary steepening of the regression line will be followed by a collapse in trophic efficiency and native species extinction due to altered resource competition.
- D.
The Y-intercept (C-value) will decrease as alien species undergo competitive release, leading to rapid co-evolution with native species.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Decomposition Rate Modifiers|Detritus Food Chain Dominance|Trophic Efficiency Limits
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often blindly apply David Tilman's hypothesis ('higher species richness equals higher ecosystem stability').
The trap is failing to distinguish between stable native biodiversity and a transient, artificial spike in species richness caused by an alien invasion, which actually destroys trophic efficiency and leads to the 'Evil Quartet' of biodiversity loss.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Ecosystem - Class 12 |
| Concept | Decomposition Rate Modifiers |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |