Biotic factors influencing gazelles:
1. Predators:
* Lions: A major predator of gazelles, especially in the African savanna.
* Cheetahs: Known for their speed, they hunt gazelles effectively.
* Leopards: Can hunt gazelles, but prefer smaller prey.
* Hyenas: Often scavenge on gazelle carcasses but can also hunt them.
* Wild dogs: Pack hunters that can bring down gazelles.
* Birds of prey: Eagles and vultures can occasionally prey on young gazelles.
2. Competition:
* Other gazelle species: Gazelles compete with each other for resources like food and water.
* Herbivores: Other herbivores like zebras, wildebeest, and antelopes compete with gazelles for grazing areas.
3. Symbiotic relationships:
* Mutualism:
* Oxpeckers: These birds feed on parasites on gazelles, providing a cleaning service while getting a meal.
* Acacia trees: Some gazelles browse on acacia leaves, which can help disperse the tree's seeds.
* Commensalism:
* Birds: Certain birds build nests in acacia trees frequented by gazelles, benefiting from the protection provided by gazelles.
4. Disease:
* Rinderpest: A highly contagious viral disease that can decimate gazelle populations.
* Anthrax: A bacterial disease that affects grazing animals, including gazelles.
* Parasites: Various parasites can infect gazelles, causing illness and weakening their health.
5. Food sources:
* Grasses: Gazelles primarily feed on various grasses.
* Herbs: They also consume different types of herbs and shrubs.
* Fruits: Gazelles can occasionally eat fruits.
6. Social interactions:
* Herd behavior: Gazelles live in herds, which helps them protect themselves from predators and find food.
* Mating rituals: Gazelles have complex mating rituals involving displays of dominance and competition.
* Communication: Gazelles use a variety of vocalizations, postures, and scents to communicate with each other.
These are just some of the many biotic factors that influence gazelle populations. The interactions between these factors are complex and constantly changing, shaping the evolution and survival of gazelles.