Anti-predator behaviour Flashcards
(14 cards)
What are the three main strategies animals use to avoid being eaten?
(1) Defend, (2) Pretend, (3) Team up.
What is an example of a chemical defence used by an animal?
The bombardier beetle sprays a noxious chemical spray to deter predators.
What role does skunk spray play in defence?
It deters predators through a strong odour released from glands near the anus.
What is Müllerian mimicry?
Unpalatable species evolve similar warning signals to reinforce predator learning and mutual benefit
What is Batesian mimicry?
Harmless species mimic the appearance of dangerous or toxic species to avoid predation.
What is thanatosis?
Also known as death-feigning, it’s a defence tactic where animals play dead.
What is startle mimicry?
When animals suddenly reveal bright patterns (like eyespots) to startle predators.
What is mobbing behaviour?
Group defence where animals collectively harass or intimidate predators, often with loud vocalisations
What is collective escape?
A coordinated evasion response where group members react to predators in synchrony, like starling murmurations or honeybee shimmering.
What are the main benefits of group living in predator avoidance?
- Many Eyes Hypothesis – quicker predator detection
- Dilution Effect – reduced chance of any one individual being caught
- Confusion Effect – predators struggle to target one individual in a group
What is self-organisation in collective animal movement?
Global movement patterns emerge from simple local rules (e.g. alignment, attraction, avoidance) without central control.
What are the basic rules of self-organisation in animals?
- Attraction – move toward others
- Alignment – match direction
- Avoidance – maintain personal space
What does the Red Queen hypothesis describe?
It describes the ongoing evolutionary arms race where species must constantly adapt to keep up with others.
How does co-evolution influence predator and prey traits?
Predator adaptations drive prey evolution (e.g., toxins, camouflage), and prey adaptations drive predator evolution (e.g., speed, sensory enhancements).
