Question

Corms of quillworts are often eaten by __________ and ____________.

a. Wading birds and muskrats
b. Insects and reptiles
c. Amphibians and squirrels
d. None of the above

Answer 1

Based on ecosystem interactions, invertebrates like insects and vertebrate animals such as ducks are likely to eat the corms of quillworts.

Step-by-step explanation:

Quillworts (Isoetes) are aquatic plants that produce edible corms. According to the information provided about animals in various ecosystems and their diets, invertebrates such as worms and insects are known to feed on various plant parts. Additionally, amphibians, reptiles, and birds also frequent aquatic and semi-aquatic environments wherein plants such as quillworts grow. Thus, quillworts are often eaten by these types of animals.

However, the specific answer to which animals eat corms of quillworts is not provided in the references given for this question. Therefore, based on general ecosystem interactions, a reasonable assumption can be made about potential consumers of quillworts. These would include invertebrates (like insects which are abundant in aquatic ecosystems) and vertebrates like ducks that are known to graze on aquatic vegetation. Ducks and other waterfowl often feed on plant corms, tubers, and roots within their habitats.