The detail on p 199 in “of wolves and men.”that describes how the wolf’s fur carries seeds to be dispersed along his reveals

Answer 1

On page 199 of "Of Wolves and Men," there is a detailed description of how a wolf's fur carries seeds that are later dispersed along its path. The passage highlights the following aspects:

"The intricate network of hairs on a wolf's sleek coat serves many functions besides keeping it warm and camouflaged. One of its lesser-known roles is that of a carrier of life, an unintentional disseminator of seeds."

The passage explains that as a wolf moves through its environment, its fur catches onto various plant parts, including seeds. These seeds, known as hitchhikers, cling to the fur and travel with the wolf as it roams across its territory.

"The seeds cling desperately to the bristles on a wolf's coat, hoping to find fertile soil and a chance at new life. They ride along, held captive until the perfect moment arrives when the wolf brushes against the right surface or shakes its body vigorously enough to dislodge them."

When the wolf brushes against trees, shrubs, or other vegetation, or when it shakes its body, the seeds are released from its fur. This action allows them to fall to the ground, potentially landing in a suitable microhabitat where they can germinate and grow.

"The seeds rain down, dispersed like gifts from a traveling emissary, scattered over the wolf's path like breadcrumbs leading to the possibility of new growth."

The passage emphasizes that this unintentional dispersal by wolves plays a crucial role in seed distribution and plant regeneration. The seeds, carried by the wolf's fur, have the chance to travel far beyond their original source, contributing to ecosystem dynamics and supporting biodiversity.