Question

raccoons eat a variety of foods and can live in a variety of habitats, including locations near humans. tiger salamanders eat an abundance of worms and insects and require wetland habitats so they do not dry out. which of the following best identifies the two different species? a raccoons are decomposers, and tiger salamanders are scavengers. b raccoons are carnivores, and tiger salamanders are herbivores. c raccoons are generalists, and salamanders are specialists. d raccoons have a type ii survivorship curve, and tiger salamanders have a type i survivorship curve.

Explanation:

• Generalists vs Specialists: Generalists can thrive in diverse environments and consume various foods. Raccoons, as described, eat a variety of foods and live in multiple habitats (including near humans), fitting the generalist role. Salamanders, needing specific wetland habitats (so they don't dry out), are specialists as they have more narrow environmental requirements.
• Other Options Analysis:
• Option A: Raccoons are not decomposers (which break down dead organic matter) and tiger salamanders are not scavengers (which consume dead animals).
• Option B: Raccoons are omnivores (eat both plants and animals), not just carnivores (meat - eaters), and tiger salamanders are not herbivores (plant - eaters).
• Option D: There is no information in the problem statement about their survivorship curves.

Answer:

C. Raccoons are generalists, and salamanders are specialists.