In a study of desert pocket mice (*Chaetodipus penicillatus*), ecologist Dr. Sarah Jenkins investigated how predation risk influences foraging behavior. Jenkins hypothesized that because pocket mice are preyed upon by owls, they will spend more time foraging under the protective cover of dense shrubs than in open areas where they are highly visible. Which choice, if true, would most directly support Jenkins's hypothesis?
- APocket mice in the study area consumed seeds from a wide variety of plant species, including those that only grow in open fields.
- BOwls in the study area were observed hunting more frequently during nights with high moonlight, when mice are more visible.
- Pocket mice in the study area gathered significantly more seeds from experimental trays placed under dense shrubs than from trays placed in open areas.Cevap
- DPocket mice in the study area showed no change in the total amount of time they spent foraging when the population of owls increased.
Cevap
Pocket mice in the study area gathered significantly more seeds from experimental trays placed under dense shrubs than from trays placed in open areas.
The correct answer supports the hypothesis by providing direct evidence of the mice's spatial preference during foraging. By showing that the pocket mice gathered significantly more seeds from trays under dense shrubs than from trays in open areas, it directly reinforces the claim that the mice prefer foraging under shrub cover to avoid owl predation.
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Identifying textual evidence that directly supports a specific scientific hypothesis or claim.