Different species of marine snails that are preyed on by a shore crab differ in terms of how easily the crab can crush their shells. Studies of these snails have provided evidence for the
A) value of "gene silencing" in ecological studies.
B) principle of compensation.
C) presence of trade-offs between different antipredator adaptations.
D) influence of exploitation in the distribution and abundance of food organisms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Different species of marine snails have evolved various antipredator adaptations, such as thicker shells or different shell shapes, which can make them more or less susceptible to predation by shore crabs. These adaptations often involve trade-offs, where an advantage in one area (e.g., thicker shells) might come at a cost in another (e.g., slower growth or mobility).

Different Species of Marine Snails That Are Preyed on by a Shore