Question

A food-chain of a rice field ecosystem is shown.





Snake

↑

Field rat

↑

Rice Plant



Field rats feed on rice grains.




How would the snake population of a rice field likely be affected in the year following a serious drought? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

Since the snakes rely on the rats for food and the rats rely on the rice there would a decline in the population of both species and plants. This could lead to possible the snakes and rats becoming invasive species to a nearby habitat.

Answer 2

They are at the top of the chain and if there happens to be a drought that means the number of animals will be lower meaning there is less food for the snake to eat.