Peeing on Plants: An Evolutionary Survival Trait Explained

  • Thread starter Ynsgfnsv
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Trees
In summary, dogs and other creatures urinate on plants, trees, and objects like lamp-posts as a way to scent-mark their territory and communicate information to other animals. This behavior may have evolved as a survival trait, as the plants receive nutrients from the urine and animals like us may feed on the re-integrated waste. However, this behavior is not for the benefit of the plants.
  • #1
Ynsgfnsv
6
0
Why do dogs and other creatures wee (me included) around plants, trees and anything resembling a lamp-post? ... methinks there is some hard-wired behavioural jobs a-go-go here.

If peeing on plants is an evolutionary survival trait ... one in which, said veg gets lashings of nutriment ... further up the 'chain', aniimals like us feed on the re-integrated faeces/disgusting bladder flush, to allow us to survive. It all makes perfect sense.
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2

1. Why do some animals pee on plants?

Peeing on plants is an evolutionary survival trait that has been observed in various animal species. This behavior is believed to have evolved as a way for animals to mark their territory and establish dominance over other animals in the same area.

2. Is there a specific reason for choosing plants as a place to pee?

Plants contain high levels of nitrogen, which is an essential nutrient for many animals. By peeing on plants, animals are able to fertilize the soil and provide a source of nutrients for the plants. This can also attract insects and other small animals to the area, which can serve as a food source for the animal.

3. Are there any benefits for the plants in this process?

Yes, there are several benefits for the plants. As mentioned before, animal urine contains nitrogen which is a vital nutrient for plant growth. In addition, the urine also contains other nutrients such as potassium and phosphorus which can also benefit the plants. This can lead to healthier and stronger plants.

4. Does the type of animal matter in terms of the impact on the plants?

Yes, the type of animal can have an impact on the plants. For example, animals with a higher protein diet, such as carnivores, will have urine with higher levels of nitrogen. This can lead to increased fertilization of the plants. On the other hand, animals with a primarily plant-based diet may have urine with lower levels of nitrogen, which may not have as significant of an impact on plant growth.

5. Are there any potential negative effects of animals peeing on plants?

In some cases, there can be negative effects of animals peeing on plants. For example, if an animal pees on the same plant repeatedly, it can lead to an excessive build-up of nitrogen which can damage the plant. Additionally, if the animal has consumed any toxic substances, it can be passed through their urine and potentially harm the plant. It is important for animals to have a diverse and balanced diet to avoid these negative effects on plants.

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top