I wouldn't say it's a reliable metaphor because most prey evolves some sort of defense against the predator, be it some sort of behavior, toxin, camouflage, or whatever nature decides to evolve as. Helps keep the population in balance and ensure survival of the species. Otherwise, it would all die out and the food chain would break down. It doesn't ensure survival, but greatly increases the odds of it. Thusly causing the predatory species to evolve to compensate as well. It's an ever continuing process of evolutionary tug-of-war.