Question 4 of 11intermediate🔧 ApplyShort Answer3 marks

In a school garden, students noticed fewer butterflies the previous season. What could be the possible reasons? What steps can students take to have more butterflies on campus?

Correct Answer

Possible reasons for fewer butterflies include: use of pesticides in or near the garden which kills butterflies and their larvae; reduction in flowering plants that provide nectar; habitat destruction due to construction or landscaping changes; pollution affecting butterfly survival; and climate changes affecting butterfly migration and breeding patterns.

Steps students can take include: planting more flowering plants that attract butterflies (like marigold, sunflower, and butterfly bush); avoiding use of chemical pesticides and adopting organic gardening methods; creating a butterfly-friendly habitat with plants that serve as food for caterpillars; maintaining a small water source; and preserving existing green areas.

Students can also participate in citizen science programs to monitor butterfly populations.

Exercise: Keep the curiosity alive | Q: 5 | (Page Page 19)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The chapter discusses how pollinators like bees and butterflies are essential for seed production in plants (Section 12.3, Activity 12.3). It also explains how overuse of synthetic pesticides harms the environment and reduces populations of beneficial insects. The 'Ever heard of...' section mentions how birds serve as pollinators, and similar principles apply to butterflies. The chapter advocates for sustainable practices that support biodiversity.

Solution Steps

  1. Use of pesticides in or near the garden kills butterflies and their larvae

  2. Reduction in flowering plants reduces nectar availability for butterflies

  3. Habitat destruction due to construction or landscaping changes affects butterfly populations

  4. Pollution affects butterfly survival

  5. Climate changes affect butterfly migration and breeding patterns

  6. Plant more flowering plants that attract butterflies (like marigold, sunflower, and butterfly bush)

  7. Avoid chemical pesticides and adopt organic gardening methods

  8. Create a butterfly-friendly habitat with plants that serve as food for caterpillars

  9. Maintain a small water source for butterflies

  10. Preserve existing green areas

  11. Participate in citizen science programs to monitor butterfly populations

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