Which scenario would most likely result in the extinction of one or more species? a. the water temperature of a pond decreases slightly, and the members of the pond populations adapt to the change. b. the conditions are abnormally dry for one season in a desert, resulting in the deaths of a few members of a snake population. c. a predatory fish is introduced into a lake, resulting in a dramatic decrease in the populations of smaller fish. d. a new plant species begins growing in a forest, resulting in a new food resource for many animal populations.

C. A predatory fish is introduced into a lake, resulting in a dramatic decrease in the populations of smaller fish.

Explanation:

If a predatory fish is introduced into a lake which feeds on smaller fish of one or more species as a result of which the number of small fish is reduced drastically then this is the scenario which can lead to the extinction of one or more small fish species. There is no escape from this predatory fish and it will keep on feeding upon the smaller fish. Option C is the most appropriate answer for this question because it is clearly mentioned that it will lead to the reduction of small fish dramatically leading to their extinction.

Option B could also be the answer but in option B it is mentioned that only a few members of snake population will die out so snakes will not extinct. So, this option is incorrect.

Option A and  D are absolutely wrong because in both the conditions the population will not even decrease so there is no chance of extinction.