Question

data set 2: frass and predators
a further experiment was conducted to test whether predators could be attracted by the smell of frass. artificial shelters similar to those of the caterpillars were placed with either 6 frass pellets or 6 beads designed to look like frass. predator wasps were introduced to the containers. each wasp had to individually choose between a larva in a shelter with its frass and a larva in a shelter with pellets to visually imitate the frass (but not the smell). the percentage of time spent by each wasp at each container was recorded.

1. what claim can be made from the collected data?
2. what is the independent variable?

what is the dependent variable?

1. summarize the evidence that supports the claim.
2. consider both data sets. answer the experimental question and use reasoning in the analysis with regard to the behavior of flinging frass.
3. extension. another hypothesis suggests that frass flinging occurs because waste reduces overall fitness and health of the larvae. describe data that would need to be collected to confirm this hypothesis.

Explanation:

1. The claim can be that predator wasps are attracted to the smell of frass as they spend a higher percentage of time and make more visits to the frass - shelter compared to the bead - shelter.
2. The independent variable is the type of shelter (bead shelter or frass shelter). The dependent variable is the percentage of time spent by each wasp at each container and the number of visits.
3. The evidence is the graphical data showing a much higher percentage of time and visits for the frass - shelter compared to the bead - shelter.
4. The experimental question likely is whether predators are attracted by the smell of frass. Reasoning: Since wasps spend more time and make more visits to the frass - shelter, it indicates that the smell of frass may be a cue for predators. Flinging frass could be a defensive behavior of larvae to move the smell - attracting waste away.
5. To confirm the hypothesis, data on the fitness and health metrics (such as growth rate, survival rate, disease - resistance) of larvae in the presence and absence of frass would need to be collected and compared.

Answer:

1. Predator wasps are attracted to the smell of frass as they spend more time and make more visits to the frass - shelter.
2. Independent variable: Type of shelter (bead shelter or frass shelter). Dependent variable: Percentage of time spent by each wasp at each container and number of visits.
3. Graphical data shows higher percentage of time and visits for frass - shelter.
4. The smell of frass attracts predators. Flinging frass may be a defensive behavior of larvae to move waste away.
5. Fitness and health metrics (growth rate, survival rate, disease - resistance) of larvae in presence and absence of frass.