Question

Which of the following, if true, would most weaken the author's conclusion in lines 18-22 ?

• A. New research reveals that the number of species of birds and parasites that prey on lepidoptera has dropped significantly in recent years.
• B. New experiments in which the habitats of lepidoptera are altered in previously untried ways result in the shortening of lepidoptera population cycles.
• C. Recent experiments have revealed that the nuclear polyhedrosis virus is present in a number of predators and parasites of lepidoptera.
• D. Differences among the habitats of lepidoptera species make it difficult to assess the effects of weather on lepidoptera population cycles.
• E. Viral disease is typically observed in a large proportion of the lepidoptera population.

Answer 1

The correct option is B New experiments in which the habitats of lepidoptera are altered in previously untried ways result in the shortening of lepidoptera population cycles.

Option B would most weaken the author's conclusion in line 18-22 because these lines from the passage conclude that the 'Nuclear polyhedrosis viruses' are supposed to be the driving forces behind the life cycles of Lepidoptera but option B states that new experiments reveal change in habitat to be the driving force behind the mentioned life cycles. Therefore, B would most weaken the statements made in line 18-22.