Asked by Holly Hacking on Jun 13, 2024
Verified
Four of the five answers are traits possessed by an ideal biological control agent. Select the exception.
A) It targets only one specific host species.
B) It has a population growth rate comparable to the host's.
C) It attacks a wide variety of hosts, including nontarget species.
D) It has offspring that disperse widely.
E) It is the host's natural enemy.
Biological Control Agent
An organism, such as a predator, parasite, or pathogen, intentionally released to control a pest species, reducing its population in a natural or managed ecosystem.
Target
An object, individual, or location selected as the aim of an attack or the focus of an activity or project.
Host Species
A species that provides a source of energy or a suitable environment for a pathogen or parasite to live and reproduce.
- Determine the examples and relevance of warning hues and mimicry among animals.
Verified Answer
VN
Victor NavaroJun 15, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Biological control agents should not attack nontarget species, as this can lead to unintended consequences such as disrupting ecosystems or causing new pest problems. Therefore, trait C is not desirable in an ideal biological control agent. Traits A, B, D, and E would all be desirable, as they help ensure that the agent effectively controls the target pest without causing harm to other species or disrupting the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Learning Objectives
- Determine the examples and relevance of warning hues and mimicry among animals.