You discover a small reef fish species in the Great Barrier Reef off the Australian coast. You study its ecology and discover that many midsized and large predatory fish consume the new species. Further, you find that this species consumes the same prey as many other species of similar-sized fish. However, many of those other small species tend to live in large schools, whereas individuals of this newly discovered species live alone. Propose a general ultimate hypothesis to explain what ecological conditions could cause a small species to live alone rather in a large school.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Answer is The general ultimate hypothesis to explain why a small species would live alone rather than in a large school could be related to competition for resources. It is possible that in the specific ecological conditions of the Great Barrier Reef, there is intense competition for food and space among the small reef fish species. Living in a large school may lead to increased competition for resources, as individuals have to compete with each other for access to prey and suitable habitat.

By living alone, the newly discovered species may be able to reduce competition with other similar-sized fish and have better access to resources. This could provide a selective advantage, allowing the species to thrive in an environment where resources are limited. Additionally, living alone may also provide the individual with more opportunities for finding suitable mates and breeding successfully.

Another potential explanation could be related to predation pressure. If there are many midsized and large predatory fish in the area that consume small reef fish, living alone may reduce the risk of being targeted by predators. Large schools of fish can attract the attention of predators, making individuals more vulnerable to predation. By living alone, the newly discovered species may be able to reduce the risk of predation and increase their chances of survival.

Overall, the ultimate hypothesis for why the newly discovered species lives alone rather than in a large school could be related to a combination of competition for resources and predation pressure in the specific ecological conditions of the Great Barrier Reef. Further research and observation would be needed to test and support this hypothesis.

You Discover a Small Reef Fish Species in the Great