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An investigation was carried out to monitor the populations of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) and grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in a 15 km² wooded area - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 6 - 2018
Question 6
An investigation was carried out to monitor the populations of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) and grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in a 15 km² wooded area. T... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:An investigation was carried out to monitor the populations of red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) and grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) in a 15 km² wooded area - Scottish Highers Biology - Question 6 - 2018
Step 1
Use values from the graph to describe the changes in the average number of breeding pairs of grey squirrels from March 2011 to March 2012.
Answer
From the graph, the average number of breeding pairs of grey squirrels increased from 0.2 pairs/km² in March 2011 to 1.6 pairs/km² in June 2011, before decreasing to 0.4 pairs/km² in March 2012.
Step 2
Step 3
Express, as the simplest whole number ratio, the number of grey squirrels to red squirrels in June 2012.
Answer
In June 2012, the graph shows that there were 8 breeding pairs/km² of grey squirrels and 2 breeding pairs/km² of red squirrels. The simplest ratio of grey squirrels to red squirrels is: ext{Ratio} = rac{8}{2} = 4:1
Step 4
Suggest why the method used to estimate the numbers of pine martens and squirrels may lead to inaccurate results.
Answer
The method may lead to inaccuracies because the same animal might be counted multiple times or may not all pass by the cameras. Additionally, the cameras may cover only parts of the area or there may be equipment failure.
Step 5
Use evidence from the table which could be used to support the statement: 'Pine martens are more successful predators of grey squirrels than red squirrels.'
Answer
In wooded area 1, there are 88 grey squirrels and 645 red squirrels, with 45 estimated pine martens. The high number of red squirrels suggests that pine martens have a more significant impact on the population of grey squirrels.
Step 6
Use evidence from the table which could be used to support the statement: 'Grey squirrels compete more successfully for food than red squirrels.'
Answer
In wooded area 1, the estimated number of grey squirrels (88) is significantly lower than that of red squirrels (645). This indicates that grey squirrels may be more successful in competing for food resources.
Step 7