Read Predator Learning and Moth Defences
A concise NSEB read for predator learning and moth defences, followed by its linked source question.
Predator Learning and Moth Defences is the central idea in this question pattern. Identify the condition in the stem before applying the method below.
Core idea
Predators can learn to avoid defended prey. Warning colouration paired with chemical defence can make capture fall with experience. An acoustic startle may work initially but lose effectiveness as predators habituate, so capture can rise. Sonar jamming can interfere with bat echolocation. Read each response curve by its starting level and trend over time.
Bat capture changes across naive and experienced predators
P starts with high capture then falls, consistent with bats learning to avoid moths with warning colouration and chemical defence. Q starts with low capture but rises, consistent with habituation to an acoustic startle. R remains low, consistent with persistent sonar jamming. Thus Q represents acoustic startle (B).
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- ✓Predators can learn to avoid defended prey.
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