What advantage does a woodrat's relatively high tolerance for certain plant toxins provide?
Answer
It broadens their available food base when preferred items are scarce
The ability of woodrats to tolerate specific chemical defenses synthesized by plants is an evolutionary benefit that directly impacts their foraging flexibility. Since many herbivores avoid plants containing these secondary compounds, woodrats can access a wider array of vegetation, especially during times when preferred, non-toxic staples like prime seeds or nuts are in short supply. This physiological adaptation allows them to process compounds that might render the food source inedible or harmful to other grazing animals, thereby enhancing overall food security by expanding their dietary options when facing scarcity.
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