Eusociality is particularly prevalent in the Order hymenoptera because
A) alleles favouring co-operative behaviour are not restricted.
B) haplodiploid genetic systems are more common in the hymenoptera than other Orders.
C) haploid selection in insects such as bees and ants produces higher mutation rates, and therefore a higher incidence of producing co-operative alleles.
D) they do not delay breeding.
E) they spend only brief periods in natal territory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Haplodiploid genetic systems, which are more common in Hymenoptera (bees, ants, wasps), facilitate eusociality because they create unique genetic relationships that favor cooperative behavior. In these systems, females develop from fertilized eggs and are diploid, while males develop from unfertilized eggs and are haploid, leading to a situation where sisters share more genes with each other (75%) than they would with their own offspring (50%). This genetic setup can make it more advantageous for individuals to help raise their siblings than to produce their own offspring, promoting the evolution of eusocial behaviors.

Eusociality Is Particularly Prevalent in the Order Hymenoptera Because