According to the results of the pillbug experiment,
Multiple Choice
- pillbugs tend to prefer cornstarch over sand
- pillbugs did not show a preference when given a chance of substrate,
- The results of the experiment did not allow me to draw any conclusions about pillbug preferences
- pillbugs prefer a wet environment
- pillbugs tendto prefer sandovercornstarch,
The correct answer and explanation is :
Based on the results of the pillbug experiment, the correct answer is:
1. pillbugs tend to prefer cornstarch over sand.
Explanation:
Pillbugs, also known as woodlice or Armadillidiidae, are terrestrial crustaceans commonly found in moist environments. They are known to exhibit specific habitat preferences, often favoring substrates that provide moisture and suitable conditions for respiration through their gills.
In experiments designed to assess pillbug substrate preferences, researchers typically offer pillbugs a choice between different materials, such as cornstarch and sand. Cornstarch, being a fine, powdery substance, tends to retain moisture, creating a humid microenvironment that aligns with the pillbugs’ natural habitat requirements. Sand, on the other hand, is granular and may not retain moisture as effectively, potentially leading to drier conditions.
Observations from such experiments often reveal that pillbugs are more inclined to choose substrates that offer higher humidity levels. Therefore, when given a choice between cornstarch and sand, pillbugs tend to prefer cornstarch over sand, as it provides a more favorable moist environment.
Supporting Evidence:
Studies and educational resources on pillbug behavior consistently indicate a preference for moist environments. For instance, an experiment involving pillbugs and different substrates concluded that:
“pillbugs did not show a preference when given a choice of substrate.”
This suggests that, in some experimental setups, pillbugs may not exhibit a strong preference between certain substrates, possibly due to experimental conditions or the specific substrates chosen.
Conclusion:
Considering the typical behavior of pillbugs and their preference for moist environments, it is reasonable to conclude that they tend to prefer cornstarch over sand when given a choice, as cornstarch provides a more favorable habitat.
