Question Constellation Sign up for free AQA · GCSE · Biology · Higher
Animal roles in stable communities
Otters are an important species for the stability of the river community. Describe two ways animal species may be important for the stability of a whole community.
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Marking points
- 1 Explains predator control of a prey population.
- 2 Explains prey as an energy source for a predator.
- 3 Explains primary-consumer control of plants or algae.
- 4 Explains alteration of habitat for other species.
- 5 Explains provision of shelter for other species.
- 6 Identifies maintenance of biodiversity.
- 7 Explains seed or pollen dispersal.
Full-mark answer
1. A predator can keep its prey population under control. 2. An animal can disperse seeds or pollen, helping plant populations reproduce and persist.
Why this answer loses marks
Prey provide food to predators.
For this route, the scheme requires transfer of energy rather than the word food alone, and a second distinct role is still needed.