If a new predator is introduced to an area with a type of prey that is limited in number, the prey species is likely to

Options

A. decrease, and possibly become extinct.
B. increase
C. remain stable.
D. initially increase, then decrease.

Answer

To solve the question, "If a new predator is introduced to an area with a type of prey that is limited in number, the prey species is likely to," we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Predator and Prey Dynamics**:
- Predators are organisms that hunt and feed on other organisms, known as prey. In this scenario, we are looking at a situation where a new predator is introduced to an environment where the prey population is already limited.

2. **Impact of Limited Prey Population**:
- When the prey population is limited, it means there are fewer individuals available for the predator to feed on. This situation can lead to increased competition among predators for the limited prey.

3. **Behavior of Predators**:
- Predators typically regulate their feeding behavior based on the availability of prey. If the prey is scarce, predators will feed only as much as they need to survive. However, if the predator is highly efficient or if there are multiple predators, they may over-exploit the limited prey.

4. **Consequences of Introducing a New Predator**:
- If a new predator is introduced, it will start to feed on the already limited prey. This additional predation pressure can lead to a further decline in the prey population.

5. **Potential Outcomes for the Prey Species**:
- As the new predator feeds on the limited prey, the prey population is likely to decrease further. If predation continues and the prey cannot recover due to their already low numbers, the prey species may face the risk of extinction.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the likely outcome for the prey species when a new predator is introduced in an area where the prey is limited in number is that the prey species will either decrease in number or potentially become extinct.

### Final Answer:
The prey species is likely to decrease in number or become extinct.

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