What ecological role is highlighted by the wood bison's habit of wallowing?
Answer
Small, temporary water catchments for invertebrates and small wildlife.
The behavior known as wallowing, where bison roll in shallow depressions, has a direct positive impact on local biodiversity. This rolling action creates small depressions that collect rainwater or snowmelt, forming temporary water catchments. These small pools become vital, intermittent water sources essential for the survival of various invertebrates and other small wildlife species in the generally dry, flat terrain they frequent.
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