Answer» - Predation is a type of interaction in which a larger organism called predator of higher trophic level seeds on another called prey of lower trophic level.
- In this type of interaction, one of the partner’s (predator) is benefitted while the prey is harmed.
Role played by predators : - They act as links for energy transfer across trophical levels.
- They keep prey populations under control.
Defences developed by animals preys against predators : - Some show cryptic colouration to avoid being detected easily by the predator.
- Some are poisonous and some are highly distantefal and therefore are avoided by the predators.
Defences developed by plant preys against predators : - Thorns (Acacia, cactus) are morphological means of defence.
- Many plants produce and store chemicals like nicotine, caffeine, quinine, strychnine, opium etc., that make the herbivore sick when they are eaten, inhibit feeding or digestion, disrupt its reproduction of even kill it.
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