Final answer:
Zebra populations maintain their numbers through physical adaptations that conserve water, and socially through herd behavior and symbiotic relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
Zebra populations are influenced by a range of biotic and abiotic factors. Physically, zebras keep water in their bodies through adaptations that help them to efficiently utilize and conserve water. They possess efficient digestive systems that extract maximum moisture from their food, and they are known to travel long distances to watering holes during the dry season.
Emotionally and socially, zebras engage in behaviors that contribute to the stability and growth of their populations. For instance, herbivores such as zebras live in herds, with adults protecting the young from predators. Social structures and symbiotic relationships, like that of the zebra and ostrich, enhance survival rates by mitigating the risks posed by predators.
Factors that affect the number of mammal species in African grasslands include disturbances like fire or predators. Fires can temporarily reduce available habitat and food, impacting populations. However, some species recover quickly, as grasslands can be resilient and regrow. Predators, on the other hand, directly impact populations through predation. But in well-functioning ecosystems, predator and prey populations are balanced to maintain biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.