What is the Relationship Between a Snake and a Prairie Dog?

Predation Relationship Between a Snake and a Prairie Dog

Predation is a biological interaction where one organism, the predator, kills and eats another organism, the prey. In this case, the snake preys on the prairie dog by striking and injecting venom into it, eventually swallowing it after it dies.

The relationship between the snake and the prairie dog is one of predation. The snake relies on the prairie dog as a source of food, while the prairie dog serves as prey for the snake. This interaction is essential for the survival and ecological balance of both species.

Unlike parasitism, where the parasite feeds off the host without necessarily killing it, in predation, the predator directly kills and consumes the prey for sustenance. The snake's hunting and feeding behavior towards the prairie dog exemplify predation in action.

Therefore, based on the information provided, the relationship between the snake and the prairie dog can be classified as predation.