According to the results of the pillbug experiment,
Multiple Choice
pillbugs did not show a preference when given a choice of substrate.
pillbugs tend to prefer sand over cornstarch.
pillbugs prefer a wet environment.
pillbugs tend to prefer cornstarch over sand.
The results of the experiment did not allow me to draw any conclusions about pillbug preferences.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is: pillbugs prefer a wet environment.
Explanation:
Pillbugs, also known as woodlice or Armadillidiidae, are commonly studied in experiments to observe their preferences for different environments, particularly when exposed to various substrates and moisture levels. In this case, if the experiment was designed to test their preferences for wet versus dry conditions, the typical result is that pillbugs tend to prefer moist environments.
Pillbugs are arthropods and belong to a group of organisms known as terrestrial crustaceans. They are sensitive to desiccation (drying out), and because they breathe through gills, maintaining moisture is crucial for their survival. This preference for moisture is a key adaptation to prevent water loss and support their respiratory needs. In controlled experiments, pillbugs are usually observed to move toward wetter areas, as they require a humid environment to maintain hydration and avoid desiccation.
Therefore, in the experiment you’re referring to, it’s likely that pillbugs were given a choice between a wet and dry environment, and they showed a preference for the wet environment, which aligns with their natural behavior of avoiding dry conditions.
When pillbugs are presented with various substrates, such as sand or cornstarch, it is also possible that they might prefer the wet substrate because it better mimics their natural habitat, such as damp soil or decaying organic matter, which is typically moist.
Thus, based on the physiological needs of pillbugs, the conclusion that they prefer a wet environment is consistent with their behavior and survival needs.
Image Concept:
An image of a pillbug in a controlled experiment setup could show the pillbug in a wet area on one side and a dry area on the other side. The pillbug would likely be near or on the wet side, visually supporting the conclusion.
