What is a likely outcome for watermelon seeds planted during a lengthy drought?

Planting watermelon seeds during a lengthy drought is likely to lead to conditions that negatively impact seed germination and plant growth due to the lack of sufficient moisture in the soil. When moisture is exceedingly low, abiotic factors such as reduced soil moisture can indeed lead to soil erosion, particularly in topsoil, because dry and loose topsoil is more susceptible to wind and water movements.

In a drought scenario, the ground becomes dry and parched, making it less stable and more susceptible to erosion due to wind. Since there is inadequate rainfall to keep the soil anchored, the effects of erosion can be exacerbated by activities such as planting and the natural forces acting on the land.

The other options do not directly address the impact of drought on the watermelon seeds. An increase in fertilizer availability or biotic factors generally requires a healthy environment with adequate moisture, which is not the case during a prolonged drought. Thus, the correct outcome focuses on the abiotic influence of drought leading to erosion, highlighting the challenges posed by inadequate water supply for cultivating healthy plants.