Why do tadpoles eat other tadpoles?

Tadpoles don't typically eat other tadpoles, at least not in the way you might think. It's not a common occurrence and it's not their primary food source.

Here's why:

* Diet: Tadpoles are primarily herbivores. They feed on algae, plant debris, and other organic matter in the water.

* Cannibalism: While there are cases of tadpoles eating other tadpoles, it's more likely to happen in overcrowded conditions or when food is scarce. This is a survival tactic called "cannibalism."

* Predation: If a tadpole is very young and small, it could be preyed upon by a larger tadpole, but this is not a common dietary behavior.

So, while cannibalism can occur in tadpoles, it's not their typical way of getting food. They are more likely to munch on algae and other plant matter.