decrease in middle-sized predators large predators will become extinct increase in population of prey species increase in population of top carnivores
I gave my students this multiple choice question: Residential construction is expanding in Florida. The expansion has caused fragmentation of habitats. One of the results of the increased construction is a decrease in the number of large predators such as the coyote, black bear, and panther. Which will be the most immediate local result of this fragmentation?

Only one answer is correct among these 4 choices:
- decrease in middle-sized predators
- large predators will become extinct
- increase in population of prey species
- increase in population of top carnivores

Could you tell me which one is correct?

increase in population of prey species