Explain4 marksStandard
The table shows the estimated population sizes of two species of fish, Species X and Species Y, in a coastal lake over a 20-year period.
| Year | Species X population | Species Y population |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | 15000 | 8000 |
| 2005 | 12000 | 10000 |
| 2010 | 9000 | 13000 |
| 2015 | 5000 | 16000 |
| 2020 | 2000 | 19000 |
During the same period, the average water temperature in the lake increased by 2.5°C due to climate change. Species Y is more tolerant of warmer water than Species X. Both species compete for the same food source.
Explain why Species X has declined and why it is important to maintain biodiversity in this ecosystem.