Invasion of the Periodical Cicada: A Reflection on Survival and Reproduction
What are two reasons why arriving above ground all at once increases the cicadas' chances of surviving and reproducing?
Final answer: Arriving above ground all at once increases the cicadas' chances of survival and reproduction due to overwhelming predators and increasing successful mating and fertilization.
Reasons for Increased Survival and Reproduction
Arriving above ground all at once increases the cicadas' chances of survival and reproduction due to two main reasons. First, mass emergence overwhelms predators, making it difficult for them to prey on cicadas. Second, large populations increase the likelihood of successful mating and fertilization, leading to more offspring.
Reflecting on the periodical cicada's unique behavior of emerging all at once above ground sheds light on the strategies these organisms employ to ensure their survival and reproduction. The mass emergence serves as a natural defense mechanism against predators by overwhelming them with sheer numbers. This tactic makes it challenging for predators to prey on individual cicadas, thus increasing the overall chances of survival for the population.
In addition to predator avoidance, the synchronized mass emergence also plays a crucial role in the reproductive success of cicadas. With a large number of individuals emerging simultaneously, the chances of successful mating and fertilization significantly increase. This leads to the production of more offspring, thereby ensuring the continuation of the species.
The phenomenon of periodical cicadas is a fascinating example of how nature has evolved unique strategies for survival and reproduction. By studying their behavior, we gain insights into the delicate balance of ecosystems and the intricate ways in which different organisms adapt to ensure their continued existence.