Dear experts, can you please help to decide between (C) and (E)?
Let's apply the Variance Test from
PowerScore CR Bible.
C. Whether monarch butterfly caterpillars (MBC) are actively feeding during the part of the growing season when maize is releasing pollen
Yes, MBC are actively feeding and we know that they die from pollen.
No, MBC are not feeding, so maybe they do not die?
Good candidate.
E. Whether any maize-eating insects compete with monarch caterpillars for the leaves of milkweed plants growing near maize fields
Yes, there are some hungry insects that compete with MBC for leaves. So, they probably are another cause of MBC deaths. Still, MBCs can die from pollen, but hungry insects play a role, too.
No, there are no hungry insects that compete with MBC for leaves. So, MBCs dies from pollen.
(E) appears to be a good option, too.
I am confused with the above and will greatly appreciate your help.