Most bats emit high-frequency and high-intensity sounds, and by their returning echoes, create an image about their surroundings. Under selective pressure from this prey-location system, certain moths (which are bats' prey) have evolved simple ears that are particularly sensitive to frequencies used by bats. When they hear the bats, they drop to the ground. The bats, in turn, have switched their sound frequency away from the moth's sensitivity range. What do we call this type of adaptation in both bats and moths?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is a classic example of coevolution, where two or more species evolve in response to selective pressures imposed by each other. In this case, the bats and moths are coevolving to gain an advantage in the predator-prey relationship. This adaptation is not simply a neutral interaction or a result of general evolution, but rather a specific case of coevolution. The term "trophic interaction" refers to the transfer of energy between different organisms in an ecosystem and is not relevant here. While evolution plays a role in the process, it is too broad a term to describe this specific adaptation without including the concept of coevolution. Therefore, the best answer is B) coevolution.

Most Bats Emit High-Frequency and High-Intensity Sounds, and by Their