Animal competitors for surface water resources in Sabi Sands are typically: a) Elephants and rhinos b) Lions and zebras c) Hippos and crocodiles d) Giraffes and wildebeests
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is: c) Hippos and crocodiles.
Explanation:
In the Sabi Sands, a renowned private game reserve in South Africa, surface water resources are vital for wildlife, particularly during the dry season when water sources become scarce. Among the many species that depend on these resources, hippos and crocodiles are two of the main competitors.
- Hippos: Hippos spend a significant amount of time submerged in water to keep cool and to avoid sun exposure, as their skin is sensitive to sunlight. They are also known to be territorial in water, especially during the breeding season. Hippos often congregate in large numbers in waterholes, and their presence can affect access to water for other species, including crocodiles. They can be aggressive when defending their space, and this aggression can further reduce the availability of water for other species.
- Crocodiles: Crocodiles are semi-aquatic reptiles that also depend on water for hunting, cooling, and nesting. They are typically found in the same waterholes or rivers that hippos occupy. Crocodiles can be highly territorial, especially in waters where they establish their hunting grounds. While crocodiles primarily hunt fish, they will opportunistically prey on other animals, including mammals that come to drink, such as antelopes. As competition for space in waterholes increases, the presence of both hippos and crocodiles can reduce the availability of safe drinking spots for other animals.
While other species, like elephants and rhinos, also depend on water, they are not as aggressive in defending water sources as hippos and crocodiles. Lions and zebras, and giraffes and wildebeests may also compete for water, but not to the same extent or in the same manner as the aggressive, territorial behavior seen in hippos and crocodiles.
Thus, hippos and crocodiles are the primary competitors for surface water in the Sabi Sands.