Question

in a new study, thomas and an international collaboration of biologists outline an answer. the researchers found that when ants invade oreganos territory, the plant produces a chemical agent that first tries to directly kill the ants, but then attracts pregnant large blue butterflies and their egg - gobbling larvae as reinforcements. the findings were published july 7 in the proceedings of the royal society b: biological sciences. ant - heavy butterflies, known as myrmecophiles, are common. of the 17,500 butterfly species on the planet, nearly a quarter boast larvae that interact with ants. but experts say the complexity of this newly discovered battle consisting of moves and countermoves is beautiful, unique and a first - of - its - kind discovery. of the known myrmecophiles, im not aware of another relationship that involves three species at once or middlemen to find prey, said ecologist karen siffton of cardiff for ecology & hydrology in england who wasnt involved in the study. large blue butterflies are considered social parasites because they lay eggs on the leaves of a social ant. after a large blue butterfly egg hatches, the resulting caterpillar produces a scent to trick the ants into thinking it is one of their own and to which point the myrmecophily truly starts. how does the author effectively communicate the information in the passage? (1 point) by referencing reputable studies and scientists to build credibility with the audience. by using a mixture of descriptive and sequential text structure to demonstrate the interconnected nature of the ants, butterflies and oregano plants. by using a compare/contrast text structure to explain the survival strategies of the ants, butterflies, and oregano plants. by employing loaded language to indicate the dire consequences of the social parasites.

Explanation:

The author refers to an international collaboration of biologists and scientific studies published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences to build credibility. This is a common way to lend weight to the information presented in scientific - related writing.

Answer:

By referencing reputable studies and scientists to build credibility.