When Wild Plant And Animal Populations Are Logged, Fished, Or Hunted, Only The Oldest Or Largest Individuals Tend To Be Taken. Many Of The Commercially Important Species Are Long Lived And Are Slow To Begin Reproducing. Which Of These Results Is Least Lik
When wild plant and animal populations are logged, fished, or hunted, only the oldest or largest individuals tend to be taken. Many of the commercially important species are long-lived and slow to begin reproducing. Which of these results is least likely?
Answer:
The result that is least likely in this scenario is the long-lived species being fast to begin reproducing. Commercially important species that are long-lived generally take longer to reach reproductive maturity and have a slower reproductive rate. Therefore, it is unlikely for these species to be fast to begin reproducing. As a result of selective logging, fishing, or hunting where only the oldest or largest individuals are taken, the population may face challenges in maintaining sustainable reproduction rates and maintaining the balance within the ecosystem. This can lead to a decline in population size and genetic diversity, posing a threat to the species’ survival in the long run. Hence, the least likely result would be the long-lived species being quick to start reproducing under such circumstances.