Which of the following conclusions do the results of the model best support? A. Larvae populations in large bodies of water with at least 16 cubic km would not be affected if pollution levels are limited to \( 1 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{L} \). B. Across all locations, larvae populations decrease by 2000 for each increase of \( 0.5 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{L} \) of pollution levels. C. Larvae populations in smaller bodies of water are more affected by pollution than those in larger bodies of water. D. Across all locations, if any level of pollution is sustained for several years, the larvae populations will be eliminated.

Based on the provided options and the context of how pollution affects larvae populations in different sizes of water bodies, **Option C** is the most supported conclusion: **C. Larvae populations in smaller bodies of water are more affected by pollution than those in larger bodies of water.** **Rationale:** - **Option A** suggests that large water bodies (≥16 cubic km) are unaffected by limited pollution, which is a very specific scenario and less likely to be a broad conclusion from a general model. - **Option B** implies a uniform decrease in larvae populations across all locations with increased pollution. While pollution generally has a negative impact, the specific figure (decrease by 2000 per 0.5 mg/L) may not capture the variability across different environments. - **Option D** is a strong absolute statement that any sustained pollution level will eliminate larvae populations. Models usually show trends rather than absolute outcomes unless the data explicitly supports such a definitive conclusion. - **Option C** aligns with ecological principles where smaller water bodies often have less capacity to dilute pollutants, making their inhabitants more vulnerable. This conclusion reflects a nuanced understanding of how system size can mediate the impact of pollution. Therefore, **Option C** is the most plausible and broadly applicable conclusion supported by typical model results in this context. **Answer:** C. Larvae populations in smaller bodies of water are more affected by pollution than those in larger bodies of water.