Mate guarding of females by males in soapberry bugs probably functions
A) to protect the females from harassment by other females.
B) to protect the females from predators.
C) to stop other males from mating with them.
D) to stop the females from eating.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mate guarding is a behavior in which males of many species guard their mates to prevent other males from mating with them. This ensures that their own paternity is guaranteed and their genes are passed on to the next generation. Thus, in soapberry bugs, mate guarding by males probably functions to stop other males from mating with females.

Mate Guarding of Females by Males in Soapberry Bugs Probably