Question

Zebra mussels were first discovered in North America in the Great Lakes in 1988. This invasive species eats phytoplankton and other microscopic organisms in fresh water. What would be the most likely effect if zebra mussels are introduced into a local fresh water lake?
a. The ecosystem would benefit from the increased competition for food and increased diversity.
b. The ecosystem would be harmed as other phytoplankton-eating organisms would have less to eat.
c. The zebra mussels would only affect the lake if it already contained another species of mussels.

Answer 1

d. The zebra mussels would benefit the lake, especially species higher up on the food chain.

Answer 2

Are you typing the whole question paper?

Answer 3

no this is my bio review

Answer 4

i just want to make sure i get the right answers and know what to study for on the test

Answer 5

all the best then!

Answer 6

thanks so i think its a what about u?

Answer 7

that was a guess though

Answer 8

i think its A but local fresh water systems would have to be pretty small right ? so increased competition can be harmful in a small system.

Answer 9

so in a large area it would be beneficial?

Answer 10

what about ?

Answer 11

yes it would be.

Answer 12

so which one is it?

Answer 13

what about b?

Answer 14

i go for B

Answer 15

I'd say B as well. The species is described as "Invasive", which means it is a good competitor - which will have a detrimental effect on whatever is occupying the niche of phytoplankton eater at the moment. As the current ecosystem is the 'natural order' for that lake, introducing Zebra mussels will damage the existing ecosystem.