Final answer:
Migration is the evolved, seasonal movement of animals between breeding and non-breeding areas, common in species ranging from birds to fish, and is crucial for resource acquisition and conservation efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Migration in Animals
Migration refers to the periodic round trips that animals make between their breeding grounds and non-breeding areas. This long-range seasonal movement is an evolved, adaptive response to changes in resource availability, environmental cues, and is observed in all major groups of animals. Notable examples include birds like geese flying south for the winter, and fish such as salmon traveling to their spawning locations. These migrations often follow specific paths, known as flyways in birds, which can span incredible distances and are repeated each year. Additionally, some species show iteroparity, meaning they can reproduce multiple times throughout their life, often once per season.
Understanding the principles of migration is significant for conservation efforts and provides insight into the natural behaviors and ecological patterns of various animal species. For instance, the migratory routes of the emperor penguin have been documented, showcasing the extreme lengths these animals travel for breeding purposes. Wildebeests also embark on long migrations in search of new grasslands, demonstrating the importance of migration for survival in various species.