TED-ED: Cannibalism in the animal kingdom - Bill Schutt

The video explores cannibalism in the animal kingdom, highlighting its role in survival and evolution. Spadefoot toad tadpoles, fish, sharks, mammals, birds, and spiders exhibit cannibalistic behaviors to reduce competition, cull the weak, and bolster the strong. Cannibalism is not just a response to starvation but a strategic adaptation to environmental pressures. The video challenges the perception of cannibalism as rare, showing it as a common and beneficial behavior in nature.

What is the primary reason spadefoot toad tadpoles engage in cannibalism?

• To increase their lifespan

• To grow faster and leave the pond before it dries

• To avoid starvation

• To reduce the number of predators

How do fish typically engage in cannibalism?

• By eating their own eggs and larvae

• By hunting other species

• By consuming adult fish of the same species

• By eating plants and algae

What unique behavior is observed in sand tiger sharks regarding cannibalism?

• They eat their siblings after birth

• They consume their mother's eggs and hatchlings

• They hunt in packs to catch prey

• They only eat when food is scarce

Why might rodent mothers eat some of their young?

• To teach them survival skills

• To dispose of sick or dead offspring

• To ensure the survival of the fittest

• To protect them from predators

What is the purpose of male Australian redback spiders allowing themselves to be eaten by females?

• To avoid competition with other males

• To increase their own lifespan

• To escape from predators

• To provide a nutritious meal to the female