Which species is an example of a specialist that consumes only a specific type of food?

The koala is an excellent example of a specialist that consumes only a specific type of food. Koalas primarily feed on eucalyptus leaves, which are their main source of nutrition. Their digestive systems are specifically adapted to process these leaves, which are relatively low in nutrients and high in fibrous content. This specialization allows koalas to thrive in environments where eucalyptus trees are abundant, but it also makes them vulnerable to changes in their habitat and food sources.

In contrast, species like raccoons, bears, and sparrows are considered generalists because they have a more varied diet and can consume a wide range of food items. Raccoons are opportunistic feeders, bears are omnivorous and will eat plants, fruits, insects, and smaller animals, and sparrows have a diverse diet that can include seeds, berries, and insects. This flexibility in diet helps generalist species adapt to different environments and food availability, unlike the specialization seen in koalas.