The predatory fish rely on visual cues and speed to capture mosquitofish. Mosquitofish rely on speed and visual cues to avoid the predatory fish. Which adaptation(s)might help the predators survive in ponds that are home to faster mosquitofish?
1)directional selection for increased speed
2)stabilizing selection for speed that matches that of the mosquitofish
3)change in hunting behavior that replaces reliance on visual cues with reliance on tactile cues, which can be used to hunt at night
4)change in hunting behavior that eliminates speed in favor of better camouflage, which permits an ambush strategy
A) 1 only
B) 2 only
C) either 1 or 3
D) either 2 or 3
E) 1, 3, or 4

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Directional selection for increased speed (1) may help predators catch faster mosquitofish, while a change in hunting behavior that replaces visual cues with tactile cues (3) may help predators hunt at night when visual cues are less effective. Additionally, a change in hunting behavior that eliminates speed in favor of better camouflage (4) would allow predators to use an ambush strategy and catch mosquitofish that way. Therefore, choices 1, 3, and 4 provide potential adaptations that would help predatory fish survive in ponds with faster mosquitofish.

The Predatory Fish Rely on Visual Cues and Speed to Capture