Problem 10 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

The equilibrium theory of island biogeography predicts that the number of species found on an island: a. increases steadily until it equals the number in the mainland species pool. b. is greater on large islands than on small ones. c. is smaller on islands near the mainland than on distant islands. d. can never reach an equilibrium number. e. is greater for islands near the equator than for islands near the poles.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is b. The number of species is greater on large islands than on small ones.

Step 1 - Understand The Equilibrium Theory of Island Biogeography

This theory proposes that the number of species at equilibrium is determined by the balance between the immigration rate of new species onto an island and the extinction rate of species on the island. Island size and distance from the mainland have effects on the number of species that the island could support.

Step 2 - Evaluate Each Option

a. This option seems incorrect because although the number of species may increase, it may not necessarily equal the number in the mainland species pool due to limitations like island size and resources. b. This option could be correct because according to the theory, larger islands can support more species due to more resources and habitats. c. This option appears incorrect because according to the theory, islands nearer to the mainland will typically have more species due to higher rates of immigration. d. This option is incorrect because the theory itself is named the equilibrium theory, suggesting an equilibrium number can be reached. e. This option is not directly implied by the equilibrium theory, which primarily considers island size and distance from the mainland.

Step 3 - Choose the Correct Answer

Based on our understanding of the equilibrium theory of island biogeography, Option b seems to be the most accurate answer because larger islands can indeed support more species due to a greater range of habitats and resources.