Read the “Investigating Life 19.1: Winged Migrants Sidestep Parasites” on page 398 in your text.
The last paragraph is here:
Monarch butterflies face multiple threats. Farms and cities in North America leave little room for milkweed, and logging in Mexico has destroyed many overwintering grounds. Providing habitat year-round might seem to boost monarch survival, but this study suggests that “sedentary” butterflies carry heavy parasite loads. Planting native milkweed species that die back each winter may instead encourage migration, giving the insects a chance to outrun their parasites.
This discussion is in 2 parts.
1) Please voice your opinion: to save the monarch should we provide year-round habitats, or seasonal habitats. Why do you believe as you do. Site facts to support your opinion/belief.
2) What other organisms in the areas west of Houston are losing habitat? Is there anything being done to help? If so, what? If not, offer an idea.
The last paragraph is here:
Monarch butterflies face multiple threats. Farms and cities in North America leave little room for milkweed, and logging in Mexico has destroyed many overwintering grounds. Providing habitat year-round might seem to boost monarch survival, but this study suggests that “sedentary” butterflies carry heavy parasite loads. Planting native milkweed species that die back each winter may instead encourage migration, giving the insects a chance to outrun their parasites.
This discussion is in 2 parts.
1) Please voice your opinion: to save the monarch should we provide year-round habitats, or seasonal habitats. Why do you believe as you do. Site facts to support your opinion/belief.
2) What other organisms in the areas west of Houston are losing habitat? Is there anything being done to help? If so, what? If not, offer an idea.