Q. Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequenc /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:

  • 1 only
  • 2 and 3 only
  • 1 and 3 only
  • 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only

Notes:

  • Butterflies (also bees) play an important role in the pollination of plants and the production of crops.
  • Butterflies transport pollen grains from one place to another.
  • So if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, pollination of some plants could be adversely affected. 
  • As there are no reasons (not proven) for a drastic increase in the fungal infections of some cultivated plants.
  • It could lead to a fall in the population of some species of wasps, spiders, and birds because these species are the predators of butterflies, so if the population decreases then these predators lose their major food source.