Ornithologist Dr. Elena Rostova investigated the foraging habits of the house sparrow (*Passer domesticus*) in urban areas. Rostova hypothesized that house sparrows are more likely to forage for food in groups rather than alone because group foraging increases their efficiency at locating food sources.
Which finding, if true, would most directly support Rostova's hypothesis?
- AHouse sparrows in urban areas spend a greater percentage of their day foraging for food in the morning than in the afternoon.
- House sparrows foraging in groups of four or more found food sources significantly faster on average than did house sparrows foraging alone.Answer
- CHouse sparrows foraging in groups are less likely to be targeted by predators than house sparrows foraging alone.
- DIndividual house sparrows foraging alone located food sources in less time than groups of house sparrows did.
Answer
House sparrows foraging in groups of four or more found food sources significantly faster on average than did house sparrows foraging alone.
The correct answer directly supports the hypothesis by providing data that group foraging is more efficient (faster) at locating food than foraging alone.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Identifying textual evidence that supports a specific hypothesis.