Fred and Joe, two unrelated, mature male gorillas, encounter one another. Fred is courting a female. Fred grunts as Joe comes near. As Joe continues to advance, Fred begins drumming (pounding his chest) and bares his teeth. Joe then rolls on the ground on his back, gets up, and quickly leaves. This behavioral pattern is repeated several times during the mating season. Choose the most specific behavior described by this example.
A) agonistic behavior
B) spatial behavior
C) associative behavior
D) innate behavior

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The aggressive behavior displayed by Fred, including drumming and teeth-baring, is a form of agonistic behavior. This type of behavior is often associated with competition over resources or mates, and is commonly observed among male primates. Joe's submissive response, rolling on his back and leaving, is also part of agonistic behavior.

Fred and Joe, Two Unrelated, Mature Male Gorillas, Encounter One