Question

Discuss the predation behaviors and list one adaptation that enhances the predation effectiveness of     (a) jellies (jellyfish) (b)  dragonflies (c) octopus (d) sharks and (e) snakes that enhance their predatory abilities.

Answer 1

a) JELLYFISH

Jellyfish act as predators on both invertebrate (e.g. cnidarians, crustaceans, tunicates) and vertebrate (fish eggs and larvae) .The jellyfish are made up of 90% water which helps them float easily in water . To protect them self from predators they have string cells. They are free swimming creatures and have large tentacles to help them put their food in their mouth. However, Some jellyfish filter feed themselves.

b) DRAGONFLIES

Adult dragonflies must dodge a broad assortment of predators, specifically arthropods, reptiles, fish such as bass, tiny mammals such as water shrews, frogs and fellow insects. Bees routinely go after mature dragonflies.They have a bullet shaped body and that helps them survive by being able to change directions fast. The dragonfly has fast wing flapping and that allows them to fly faster. They have very big eyes and that helps them survive by having very good vision.

c) OCTOPUS

During planktonic life, the octopus feeding behavior is that of a visual predator. The presence of prey increases the turning rate and reduces the swimming speed in O. vulgaris paralarvae, possibly improving the exploitation of patchy food environments in the wild.Octopuses can use camouflage, which is when an animal blends into its surroundings. They can change their own color and texture to hide. If they're attacked, they can use poisonous chemicals to hide from predators and kill their prey.

d) SHARKS

Sharks attack seals on the surface via a sudden vertical rush, which propels predator and prey out of the water in an awesome display of power and acrobatic prowess.A shark has fins and a streamlined body that help it swim through water. It has gills, which take in oxygen directly out of the water. Because of its gills, sharks can stay underwater and not have to come to the surface to breathe. Sharks also have a tremendous number of sharp teeth, which make them fierce predators.

e) SNAKES

It is hard to believe but snakes have many enemies. Large birds, wild boars, mongooses, raccoons, foxes, coyotes and even other snakes are a few of the dangers snakes fall prey to. A snake's main adaptation to life is its very form. With no legs, arms, ears and other appendages, it can slither through grass or among rocks without causing disturbance that might frighten prey. It can enter narrow holes in the ground made by rodents, find those rodents and eat them.