A small population of copper-coloured butterflies was found in Eltham in 1938 - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2009 - Paper 1
Question 14
A small population of copper-coloured butterflies was found in Eltham in 1938. The butterfly has since been found in one location in Castlemaine and six locations at... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A small population of copper-coloured butterflies was found in Eltham in 1938 - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2009 - Paper 1
Step 1
a) moving the populations to one area to give greater genetic diversity.
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Answer
Moving the populations to a single area could allow for greater genetic diversity by encouraging interbreeding and reducing the effects of inbreeding. However, this may not address habitat loss or the specific needs of the butterfly.
Step 2
b) planting more sweet bursaria in reservation areas at all locations.
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Planting more sweet bursaria in preserved areas is a critical step, as it directly supports the butterfly's life cycle by providing essential habitat and food sources for both the adult butterflies and their larvae.
Step 3
c) burning off local undergrowth to remove competitive weeds.
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Burning local undergrowth could help remove competitive weeds, which might otherwise outcompete the sweet bursaria. However, this must be managed carefully to avoid harming other local ecosystems.
Step 4
d) removing the nests of all Australian ants.
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Removing the nests of all Australian ants would be detrimental, as the larvae of the butterfly require the protection of specific ants. This approach could disrupt the symbiotic relationship and ultimately harm the butterfly population.
