Question

Animals can be classified as ‘specialists’ or ‘generalists’ with respect to diet and habitat selection. Which of the following organism/s belong/s to the specialist category?

• A. Raccoon
• B. Panda
• C. Polar Bear
• D. Koala Bear

Hint:

Specialists have a narrow range of diet and habitat preferences, while generalists can adapt to various conditions and diets.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, C, D

Step 1: Understanding the terms.
Specialists are organisms that have a narrow diet or habitat preference, while generalists have a broader range of diet and habitat. Pandas, polar bears, and koala bears are all considered specialists.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Incorrect, raccoons are generalists as they can adapt to various environments and have a wide diet.
- (B) Correct, pandas are specialists as they primarily feed on bamboo and have a limited diet.
- (C) Correct, polar bears are specialists as they rely on a specific diet of seals and live in Arctic regions.
- (D) Correct, koala bears are specialists as they mainly feed on eucalyptus leaves and have a narrow dietary range.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Pandas, polar bears, and koala bears are examples of specialists due to their specific diet and habitat preferences.