Answer: Plants contribute to the survival of animals:
Food and Energy: Plants are primary producers that convert sunlight into energy through photosynthesis. They provide food sources for herbivorous animals, including insects, mammals, and birds. By consuming plants or plant parts, animals obtain the nutrients and energy they need for survival.
Shelter and Habitat: Plants provide shelter and habitats for a wide range of animal species. Trees, for example, offer nesting sites for birds and provide protection from predators. Plants also create microhabitats within their structures, such as burrows formed by plant roots, which offer shelter to small animals.
Oxygen Production: Through photosynthesis, plants release oxygen into the atmosphere. Animals, including humans, rely on this oxygen for respiration, enabling them to breathe and survive. Oxygen-rich environments created by plants support the survival of aerobic organisms.
Animals contribute to the survival of plants:
Pollination: Animals, particularly insects, birds, and bats, play a crucial role in pollinating plants. As they feed on the nectar or pollen of flowers, they inadvertently transfer pollen grains between flowers, facilitating fertilization and reproduction in plants. This enables the production of seeds and ensures the genetic diversity and survival of plant populations.
Seed Dispersal: Many plants rely on animals for seed dispersal. Animals eat fruits or seeds and subsequently excrete the undigested seeds in different locations. This dispersal mechanism helps plants colonize new areas, reduces competition among offspring, and increases their chances of survival and successful germination.
Nutrient Cycling: Animals contribute to nutrient cycling by acting as seed dispersers, pollinators, or decomposers. Through their movement and consumption, they help distribute nutrients within ecosystems, facilitating their uptake by plants. Animal waste products, such as feces, also serve as natural fertilizers, enriching the soil and providing essential nutrients for plant growth.
Step-by-step explanation: