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Figure 13 shows part of a food web of organisms found in the cold Antarctic Ocean - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 7 - 2023 - Paper 2
Question 7
Figure 13 shows part of a food web of organisms found in the cold Antarctic Ocean. (a) Which term describes phytoplankton in this food web? A consumer B producer... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 13 shows part of a food web of organisms found in the cold Antarctic Ocean - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 7 - 2023 - Paper 2
Step 1
Step 2
State why the removal of cod could lead to a decrease in the numbers of squid and penguins.
Answer
The removal of cod from the Antarctic Ocean will likely lead to a decrease in the numbers of squid and penguins because both squid and penguins prey on cod. With fewer cod available, these predators will have less food, leading to a decline in their populations due to decreased survival and reproductive success.
Step 3
Explain why the removal of cod could lead to an increase in the numbers of squid and penguins.
Answer
If cod populations are significantly reduced, there may be less competition for food resources among squid and penguins. With fewer predators, squid might have increased survival rates, leading to a higher population of squid, which can subsequently support a greater number of penguins, as they often also prey on squid. Thus, the decrease in cod could create an ecological balance that benefits both squid and penguins.