Question

Use the following scenario to answer questions

In the case of Krakatau, which is a volcanic island in Indonesia, we have many recordings of its recolonization by life forms after the 1883 eruption which wiped the island clean of all preceding life forms. One of the first groups of organisms to colonize was that of spiders and insects. The next set of arrivals included a variety of birds flying to/from the mainland of the Asian continent. However, only two of the bird species remained to nest. The hatchlings of one bird species did not live long, but the hatchlings of the other bird species did manage to mature. Except one of the two hatchlings failed to develop the wings for flight.

13.How can the survival differential between the two bird species be explained?

14.What types of characteristics could lead to the evolution of a new bird species on the island?

15.How might Krakatau’s developing landscape become dependent on these bird species?

Answer 1

13. The environmental conditions prevailing in the island is suitable for the survival of one species of bird than the other. The conditions are more favorable for reproductive success for one of the species in the island which leads to their better adapatability and survival on the island.

14. The ability of the birds to nest, have a good reproductive success, the survival of hatchlings to their sexual maturity and their normal development for better survival. These characteristics are necessary for their better survival and propagation of species in the island.

15. The island which was wiped off its flora and fauna due to the volcanic activity. To establish the vegetation and animal species, birds play an important role in pollinating the different species of plants from the main island.