Biology
Phenotypic Plasticity in Amphibian Larval Development Under Predator Stress
Quick fact
When predators like dragonfly larvae are present, tadpoles can grow a deeper tail fin and a smaller body within days—changes that make them faster swimmers and more likely to escape—but these same changes make them less competitive for food.
Why this is interesting
Imagine a tiny tadpole that can morph its own body to become a better swimmer just because a predator is nearby. How does it know?