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Since 2003, in France, people have been buying Siberian chipmunks as pets but then releasing them into the wild when they are no longer wanted - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 4
Since 2003, in France, people have been buying Siberian chipmunks as pets but then releasing them into the wild when they are no longer wanted. They are now classif... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Since 2003, in France, people have been buying Siberian chipmunks as pets but then releasing them into the wild when they are no longer wanted - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 4 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
(a)(i) Draw a pyramid of biomass for this food chain.
Answer
To draw a pyramid of biomass:
- Shape: Construct a pyramid shape with distinct levels for each organism in the food chain.
- Labels: Label each level clearly with the respective organism's name: Acorns, Chipmunks, and Wild Dogs.
- Proportions: Ensure that the width of the bars (or triangle) are in proportion to the biomass values given:
- Acorns: 20650 kg
- Chipmunks: 2200 kg (keep this equal or less than 50% of acorns)
- Wild Dogs: 230 kg (keep this equal or less than 50% of chipmunks)
This ensures an accurate representation of biomass within the food chain.
Step 2
(a)(ii) Explain why the number of chipmunks in France may increase.
Answer
The increase in the number of chipmunks in France can be explained as follows:
- Predator Dynamics: With few chipmunks being eaten or killed, this happens due to a low number of natural predators (i.e., wild dogs).
- Population Growth: Consequently, as fewer chipmunks are predated, the overall population may increase, leading to a rise in their numbers.
- Reproductive Growth: An increase in the number of chipmunks allows for greater reproductive success, further contributing to the population growth.