As You Study Two Closely Related Predatory Insect Species, the Two-Spot

question 13

Multiple Choice

As you study two closely related predatory insect species, the two-spot and the three-spot avenger beetles, you notice that each species seeks prey at night when present in an area where the other beetle species is absent. However, where their ranges overlap, the two-spot avenger beetle hunts at night and the three-spot hunts in the morning. When you bring them into the laboratory and isolate the two different species, you discover that the offspring of both species are found to be nocturnal. Which of the following conclusions is best supported by this scientific evidence?

• A) the two-spot beetle species may be competitively displacing the three-spot beetle species
• B) the three-spot beetle species may be competitively displacing the two-spot beetle species
• C) the two beetle species do not compete for prey when sharing an area
• D) the two beetle species prefer to feed during the daytime

---

Definitions:

Cauda Equina

The cauda equina is a bundle of spinal nerves and spinal nerve rootlets below the end of the spinal cord, resembling a horse's tail, which distributes nerve roots to the lower limbs and pelvic organs.

Filium Terminale

The filium terminale is a slender filament of connective tissue that extends from the conus medullaris at the lower end of the spinal cord to the coccyx, anchoring the spinal cord in place.

Conus Medullaris

The tapered, lower end of the spinal cord, typically ending around the first lumbar vertebra.

Cervical Enlargement

A widened area of the spinal cord that supplies nerves to the shoulders, arms, and hands.