If Prey are Experimentally Protected from Predators Then

Question

If prey are experimentally protected from predators then:
A) Prey numbers typically decrease quickly
B) Prey numbers may increase but then decrease when resources become limiting
C) Prey numbers usually do not change
D) Prey numbers are not dependent on predators

Accepted Answer

When prey are experimentally protected from predators, they may initially experience an increase in numbers due to reduced predation pressure. However, as the prey population grows, resource availability may become limiting, leading to a subsequent decrease in numbers. Therefore, prey numbers may increase but then decrease when resources become limiting.