Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequence/consequences? 1. Pollination of some plants could be adversely affected. 2. There could be a drastic increase in the fungal infections of some cultivated plants. 3. It could lead to a fall in the population of some species of wasps, spiders and birds. Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 and 3 only
- C. 1 and 3 only
- D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: C
Explanation
Statement 1 and 3 are correct. Butterflies are pollinating insects. They help in pollination of many flowering plants. Butterflies also act as a lower member of the food chain. A number of animals, including birds and mice feed on butterfly. As populations of butterfly diminish, so will populations of birds and other animals that rely on them as a food source. This loss of the butterfly is the beginning of the “butterfly effect.” Statement 2 is not correct.