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 behavioural pattern is repeated several times during the mating season. Choose the most specific behaviour described by this example.
A)agonistic behaviour
B)territorial behaviour
C)learned behaviour
D)social behaviour
E)fixed action pattern

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The behaviour described is agonistic behaviour, as Fred is displaying aggressive behaviour towards Joe to defend his territory and mating rights.

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