Every October in North America, Monarch butterflies migrate south - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 2
Every October in North America, Monarch butterflies migrate south.
This migration is affected by environmental factors and circadian rhythms.
The migration of Monarc... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Every October in North America, Monarch butterflies migrate south - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
A circadian rhythm is a
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
A circadian rhythm is a daily cycle. It refers to biological processes that follow a roughly 24-hour cycle, such as sleep and feeding patterns.
Step 2
ii) Describe what is meant by innate behaviour.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Innate behaviour is a type of behaviour that is genetically hardwired in an organism. It does not require learning or experience and is performed in response to specific stimuli without prior experience.
Step 3
Suggest why Monarch butterflies migrate south in October.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Monarch butterflies migrate south in October to escape the cold winter temperatures in the northern regions. This migration helps them find a more suitable habitat that provides warmth and food availability during the winter months.
Step 4
i) Calculate the mean population of Monarch butterflies between 2004 and 2012.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
To calculate the mean population from 2004 to 2012, we consider the populations of 10 million (2004), 9 million (2008), and 2 million (2012). The mean can be calculated as follows:
extMean=3(10+9+2)=321=7 million
Step 5
ii) State a conclusion that can be made from these two means.
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The populations of Monarch butterflies have declined significantly. The mean population between 2004 and 2012 is 7 million, which is lower than the mean population of 15 million from 1992 to 2000, indicating a concerning trend in their numbers.
