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To answer the question about what would cause the population of tarantulas to increase, let's break down each option:
1. Introduction of a new tarantula predator in the ecosystem:
- If a new predator that specifically preys on tarantulas is introduced, it would likely decrease the tarantula population rather than increase it.
2. Increased competition for prey:
- If there is more competition for food sources among tarantulas, it might lead to a decrease in their population due to limited resources.
3. A higher survival rate of tarantula eggs:
- This option would likely lead to an increase in the tarantula population. If more tarantula eggs survive and hatch successfully, it would result in more individuals being added to the population.
4. A decrease in prey populations:
- A decrease in the population of tarantula prey could actually benefit the tarantulas by reducing competition for food, potentially leading to an increase in the tarantula population.
Therefore, among the options provided, a higher survival rate of tarantula eggs and a decrease in prey populations would be factors that could cause the population of tarantulas to increase.
