Question

Explain any three roles of ‘predation’ in an ecosystem with the help of suitable examples.

Hint:

Predation is crucial for maintaining ecological equilibrium and promoting evolutionary adaptations.

Answer 1

Roles of predation: 

Maintains species diversity: Predators control the population of prey, preventing any single species from dominating. Example: Lions preying on zebras in savannahs. 

Regulates ecosystem balance: Predators ensure a balance between herbivores and plants. Example: Wolves controlling deer populations.
 
Promotes natural selection: Predation exerts pressure on prey to evolve defensive mechanisms. Example: Camouflage in stick insects.