Which of the following statements about predation is correct?a)Predati...
Predators help control prey populations, often preventing prey from reaching excessively high densities. This is a natural ecological balance.
Topic in NCERT: Predation and its Ecological Role
Line in NCERT: "Some predators help in controlling their prey populations."
Which of the following statements about predation is correct?a)Predati...
Understanding Predation
Predation is a fundamental ecological process involving the interaction between predators and their prey. Among the given statements, option 'B' accurately describes a significant aspect of predation.
Correct Statement: Predators Prevent High Prey Densities
- Population Control: Predators help maintain the balance of ecosystems by controlling prey populations. Without predation, certain species could reproduce unchecked, leading to overpopulation.
- Resource Availability: By keeping prey numbers in check, predators ensure that resources such as food and habitat remain available for other species, fostering biodiversity.
Analysis of Other Options
- Option A: Predation is not mutualism. In mutualism, both species benefit, while in predation, the predator benefits at the expense of the prey.
- Option C: Herbivores are indeed considered predators in ecological terms as they consume plant material, impacting plant populations and dynamics.
- Option D: While overexploitation can lead to declines in prey populations, it typically does not result in the extinction of both predator and prey species. Predators can adapt or switch to alternative prey if one species becomes scarce.
Conclusion
In summary, option 'B' is correct because it highlights the crucial role of predators in preventing prey populations from reaching unsustainable levels, thus maintaining ecological balance. Understanding these interactions is essential for grasping the complexities of ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity.
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