A geologically ancient pond has historically maintained a constant depth and constant water temperature. It is far removed from other bodies of water, so it does not receive an input of flood water nor does it flood. This means that the life within the pond has been very stable over time. However, over the last five years, human development has encroached on the pond. Drainage from roads now floods into the pond. In addition, waste water from nearby housing developments is released into the pond.
Historically, there were only two species of invertebrates living in the pond. Species A is able to reproduce sexually only. Species B is able to reproduce asexually only. Which of the following statements is the most accurate?
a. Historically, species A had a reproductive advantage over species B but that has changed since the encroachment of humans.
b. If species A could shift to asexual reproduction, it would be the most successful species in the current environment.
c. Historically, species B's mode of reproduction was historically favored, but Species A's mode of reproduction is favored since the encroachment of humans.
d. Both species A and species B will be equally successful, historically and currently.