Question

Albatrosses are birds that can live to age 60 and older. They usually do not start breeding until they reach age 8 or 9, which is relatively late compared to other bird species. Based on this information, explain conditions that might be a risk to the survival of albatrosses.

a) Early breeding
b) Late breeding
c) Short lifespan
d) Lack of predators

Answer 1

Albatrosses face survival risks due to late breeding, which lessens their breeding opportunities and the extensive parental care required, which limits the number of offspring they can raise.

Step-by-step explanation:

The survival of albatrosses may be at risk due to conditions related to their reproductive strategies. Late breeding could be a risk because it reduces the number of potential breeding opportunities within their lifespan. They don't start to breed until age 8 or 9, and with a long lifespan of over 60 years, any disruption early in life could significantly impact their ability to contribute to the population. Additionally, the requirement for extended parental care means that fewer offspring can be reared over a lifetime. In contrast, early breeding tends to reduce an individual's growth and may compromise health, leading to a potentially shorter lifespan. Finally, though not a direct threat, lack of predators is a condition that has led some species to evolve into flightless birds, a trait which could make them more vulnerable should predators be introduced.