Scientific study of the population cycles of the snowshoe hare and its predator, the lynx has revealed that a. predation is the dominant factor affecting prey population cycling. b. hares and lynx are so mutually dependent that each species cannot survive without the other. c. both hare and lynx population sizes are affected mainly by abiotic factors. d. the hare population is r-selected and the lynx population is K-selected.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the terms: 'r-selected' species are those that reproduce quickly and in large numbers, often in unstable environments. 'K-selected' species reproduce more slowly, have fewer offspring, and tend to stabilize near the carrying capacity of their environment.
2. Review the relationship between snowshoe hares and lynx: The lynx preys on the snowshoe hare, and their population sizes have been observed to fluctuate in cycles. When hare numbers increase, lynx numbers also rise after a delay, as they have more food available.
3. Analyze the options: Option (a) suggests predation is the dominant factor, which aligns with the observed cycles of population increase in lynx following hare population increases, indicating a predator-prey dynamic.
4. Consider the mutual dependency in option (b): While the lynx relies heavily on the hare for food, hares do not depend on lynx for survival, making this option incorrect.
5. Evaluate abiotic factors in option (c): While abiotic factors like climate can affect populations, the specific cyclic pattern of hares and lynx suggests a biotic interaction (predation) rather than abiotic factors as the main driver.