Question 1

Fixed action patterns

Accepted Answer

Fixed action patterns are innate behaviors that are stereotyped and triggered by a specific stimulus in the environment. They are controlled by the nervous system and can be observed in many species, from insects to mammals. They are not controlled by learning, as they do not require any prior experience or training to be expressed. While some fixed action patterns may be simple, others can be quite complex, involving multiple components and coordinating different body parts. Finally, fixed action patterns do not challenge the notion of biological determinism, but rather provide evidence of the genetic and neurological basis of behavior.

Question 2

Suppose that nearly all healthy individuals of a fish species perform a swimming pattern upon exposure to a chemical.This response is very similar across all individuals of the species,and is exceedingly difficult to prevent via learning.Most likely,this behavior is an example of

Accepted Answer

A fixed action pattern is an innate behavior that is stereotyped and virtually unchangeable, once it has been initiated. The fact that nearly all healthy individuals of a fish species perform a swimming pattern upon exposure to a chemical, and do so in a very similar way, suggests that this is an example of a fixed action pattern.  This behavior is not likely to be prevented via learning, which also supports the notion of an innate, or fixed, behavior.

Question 3

The per (period)gene primarily affects

Accepted Answer

The per (period) gene regulates the circadian rhythm, or daily activity patterns, of an organism. Therefore, choice E is the best answer. The per gene does not primarily affect behavioral imprinting (choice A), running speed (choice B), running duration (choice C), or alarm call production (choice D).

Question 4

In Metzgar's experiments on learning in white-footed mice,the screech owls

Accepted Answer

The answer of In Metzgar's experiments on learning in white-footed...

Question 5

The begging behavior of gull chicks is a classic example of

Accepted Answer

The begging behavior of gull chicks is a fixed action pattern, which means it is a genetically programmed behavior that is triggered by specific stimuli. The chicks instinctively peck at the parent's beak or body until food is regurgitated. This behavior is not learned or imprinted, and is not related to orientation or pheromones.

Question 6

Suppose you find that houseflies from northern areas are more likely to engage in a food seeking behavior than those from the south.What is the best method to show that these geographic differences are genetic and not just environmental in nature?

Accepted Answer

The best method to show that geographic differences in behavior are genetic is to raise the flies from different regions in a common environment. If the behavioral differences persist, then it suggests that the differences are genetic and not solely due to different environmental factors. This method controls for environmental influences and helps isolate genetic factors that contribute to behavioral differences. Sequencing DNA or measuring other behavioral traits may provide additional information, but they do not directly address the question of whether the differences are due to genetic or environmental factors.

Question 7

Artificial selection experiments are best able to answer the question of whether or not

Accepted Answer

C  Artificial selection experiments can demonstrate how quickly a behavior can evolve (A) and reveal if behavioral differences have a genetic basis (C) by selecting for specific traits over generations.

Question 8

Biological determinism

Accepted Answer

Biological determinism is consistent with fixed action patterns, which are innate, pre-programmed responses to certain stimuli, suggesting that behavior is determined by biology.

Question 9

Lynch's studies of house mice nest sizes

Accepted Answer

Lynch's studies demonstrated a genetic basis for nest size in house mice, indicating that this trait is heritable and can be influenced by genetic factors.

Question 10

Which statement about fixed action patterns is false?

Accepted Answer

Fixed action patterns do not require learning, as they are innate behaviors that are genetically programmed and performed in response to a specific stimulus.

Question 11

Researchers use both "positive" and "negative" evidence to infer the roles of structures in behaviors.Which observation would be considered "negative" evidence in support of a hypothesis about the role of a brain structure?

Accepted Answer

The answer of Researchers use both "positive" and "negative" evidence...

Question 12

In Metzgar's experiments on learning in white-footed mice,the sticks

Accepted Answer

In Metzgar's experiments, the sticks could be used by the mice to help them hide from the predator, as they would use the sticks to create a barrier or cover themselves. The other options are not mentioned or implied in the passage.

Question 13

An individual animal modifying its behaviors as a consequence of previous individual experience provides an example of

Accepted Answer

Learning involves the modification of behavior based on experience.

Question 14

What is the relevance of per mutations to the question of whether activity rhythm behaviors can evolve?

Accepted Answer

Per mutations are mutations in genes that regulate an organism's circadian rhythm. These mutations demonstrate that there is genetic variation that can be acted upon by natural selection, which can lead to the evolution of activity rhythm behaviors.

Question 15

In Metzgar's experiments on learning in white-footed mice,

Accepted Answer

In Metzgar's experiments, the familiar mice were less likely to be caught by the owl, indicating that they had learned how to avoid danger in their familiar surroundings. This suggests that learning can play a role in the survival of the mice.

Question 16

The window of time during which this process takes place is _______ days.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The window of time during which this...

Question 17

In comparison with other traits,behavior is dramatically more

Accepted Answer

Behavior is much more flexible compared to other traits, meaning it can be influenced by environmental factors and learning experiences. While genetics do play a role in behavior, there is greater potential for variation and change over an individual's lifetime. Artificial selection is typically focused on physical traits rather than behavior, and while certain behaviors may have a genetic component, they are not fixed at birth and can be shaped by experiences and learning. Thus, the best choice is E, flexible.

Question 18

These observations provide an example of

Accepted Answer

Imprinting is a form of learning occurring at a particular life stage that is rapid and apparently independent of the consequences of behavior. The observations likely describe a scenario where an animal forms attachments or develops a concept of its identity during a critical period.

Question 19

Which statement about behavioral imprinting is false?

Accepted Answer

The statement "Its effects are easily reversed" is false. Behavioral imprinting can have lasting effects and may not be easily reversed once established.

Question 20

Which observation would be most compatible with biological determinism?

Accepted Answer

Biological determinism is the belief that human behavior is controlled solely by biological factors such as genes or hormones, rather than by environmental or cultural influences. The observation that young gulls instinctively peck at red spots indicates a strong genetic basis for their behavior, which is compatible with biological determinism. The other options involve learning or environmental influences, which are not consistent with this idea.

Quiz 40: Animal Behavior