Question

A botanist observes a large population of a particular type of beetle eating the leaves of one tree but not the leaves of a nearby tree. What should the botanist do first to study the interaction of these organisms in the ecosystem? Remove the beetle population from the tree, and study them in the lab. Identify the species of the beetle and the species of both trees. Determine why the beetle is eating one tree but not the other. Recommend a treatment that will keep the beetles from eating the trees.

Answer 1

Answer: B OR Identify the species of the beetle and the species of both trees.

Answer 2

To study the interaction of these organisms in the ecosystem, the botanist should first:

1. Identify the species of the beetle and the species of both trees: Understanding the specific species involved is crucial for studying their interactions. By identifying the beetle species and the two tree species, the botanist can gather information about their characteristics, behavior, and potential relationships.

2. Determine why the beetle is eating one tree but not the other: Investigating the reasons behind the differential feeding behavior is essential. Factors such as differences in leaf composition, chemical defenses, or physical characteristics may explain why the beetles prefer one tree over the other. This analysis can provide insights into the mechanisms driving the interaction.

3. Recommend a treatment that will keep the beetles from eating the trees: Once the reasons for the beetles' selective feeding behavior are identified, the botanist can explore potential management strategies. This might involve modifying environmental conditions, applying repellents, or developing targeted interventions to protect the trees from beetle damage.

By following these steps, the botanist can gain a comprehensive understanding of the interaction between the beetle population and the trees, paving the way for further research and potential conservation or management actions.