2.2: Primate Ecology

Question 1

What is the definition of ecology?

Answer 1

Interactions between organisms and environment: two parts:

physical, biological (other organisms) environment.

Question 2

What are the four energy requirements?

Answer 2

Basal metabolism
Active metabolism
Growth
Reproduction

Question 3

What are two secondary compounds made by plants as a chemical defence?

Answer 3

Alkaloids: can disrupt normal cell processes
Tannins: reduce digestibility of plants

Question 4

What is Kay’s Threshold for insectivores and non-insectivorous primates?

Answer 4

Around 500 g.

Question 5

During scarcity of food due to time of season, what are the two strategies that primates employ?

Answer 5

1. Eat lower quality foods

2. Reduce energy expenditures

Question 6

Different types of space used a day by primates?

Answer 6

1. Day space: linear distance(area) travelled
2. Home range: area used by an animal (or group of animals) in its normal activities of feeding, sleeping, resting, etc.
3. Territory: Area an animal defends

Question 7

How do groups provide protection against predators?

Answer 7

1. Detection: more eyes on the lookout
2. Deterrence: swarming/mobbing
3. Dilution: one of many - “better them than me”