📊 GMAT Exam Prep

The average lifespan of a certain species of deep-sea fish has decreased by 20% over the last decade. During the same period, ocean temperatures in their habitat have risen by an average of 1 degree Celsius, and the population of their primary predator has increased by 15%. Which of the following can be most reasonably inferred from the information above?

A The increase in predator population is the sole cause of the fish's decreased lifespan.
B Rising ocean temperatures are detrimental to the deep-sea fish species.
C At least one factor contributing to the fish's decreased lifespan became more prevalent in the last decade.
D The deep-sea fish species is unable to adapt to environmental changes.

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

We know the lifespan decreased and multiple environmental factors changed. While we cannot pinpoint a single cause or assume inability to adapt, it's reasonable to infer that at least one of these changing factors played a role.

💡 Why is C) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "The average lifespan of a certain species of deep-sea fish has decreased by 20% over the last decade. During the same period, ocean temperatures in their habitat have risen by an average of 1 degree Celsius, and the population of their primary predator has increased by 15%. Which of the following can be most reasonably inferred from the information above?" is Option C: At least one factor contributing to the fish's decreased lifespan became more prevalent in the last decade..

The other options — A) The increase in predator population is the sole cause of the fish's decreased lifespan., B) Rising ocean temperatures are detrimental to the deep-sea fish species., D) The deep-sea fish species is unable to adapt to environmental changes. — are incorrect for this GMAT Exam Prep question. As explained above: We know the lifespan decreased and multiple environmental factors changed. While we cannot pinpoint a single cause or assume inability to adapt, it's reasonable to infer that at least one of these ch…

📚 About This GMAT Exam Prep Practice Question

This 3-level GMAT Exam Prep question from the Verbal Reasoning topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free GMAT Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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