Before You Begin
Question #46044
The Question
Alexander von Humboldt's Species-Area Relationship is expressed as . An ecologist surveys frugivorous birds across an entire tropical continent and calculates a Z-value of 1.15. If severe anthropogenic fragmentation divides this continent into isolated patches, which of the following statements regarding the regression model and Z-value is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The initial Z-value of 1.15 represents a steeper slope compared to the 0.1-0.2 range typically observed for plants in Britain or birds in California.
- B.
The log-log linear model will fail to accurately predict species richness in the fragmented landscape because the regression line fluctuates in highly heterogeneous, disrupted biomes.
- C.
The Z-value is a constant taxonomic parameter; hence, the slope of the regression line for frugivorous birds will remain 1.15 regardless of the anthropogenic fragmentation.
- D.
In the undisturbed continent, the steep slope (Z=1.15) indicates that the number of newly discovered species increases rapidly as the surveyed area expands.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Sacred Groves as Refugia|In-situ Conservation (Hotspots)|Species-Area Relationship
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize the NCERT fact 'Z=1.15 for frugivorous birds' and mistakenly deduce that the Z-value is a fixed, intrinsic property of the taxon.
The trap tests the understanding that Z is an area-dependent regression coefficient that fluctuates when scaling is disrupted by habitat fragmentation.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biodiversity and Conservation - Class 12 |
| Concept | Species-Area Relationship |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |