Question

With reference to the following picture, if the number of slugs reduce suddenly, which of the following statement(s) are true?

• A. There would be more grass for the rabbits and insects.
• B. The populations of rabbits would increase.
• C. The population of insects could decrease.
• D. The populations of moles and frogs will increase.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (B), (C)

The population of insects could decrease.

The picture represents a food web. Here, slugs, rabbits and insects all eat grass. If there were fewer slugs there would be more grass for the rabbits and insects. With more food the populations of rabbits and insects would increase. However, the thrushes would have to eat more insects to maintain their population, so it is also possible that the population of insects could decrease. This is turn may reduce the populations of moles and frogs. So, although not a direct participant in other food chains, slugs are actually creating a lot of difference in the food habits.