Ethology: How Much Do You Know About Animal Behavior? Trivia Quiz

Sensory bias refers to the preference for certain traits in a mate based on the intensity of sensory stimulation. In this context, it suggests that females are driven to choose mates based on the sensory experience they provide. This explanation implies that females are more likely to select mates who stimulate their senses in a desirable way, indicating that sensory predisposition plays a role in mate choice.

Female pied flycatchers choose males based on the quality of the territory. This means that females are more likely to select males who have established territories with abundant resources and suitable nesting sites. By choosing males with high-quality territories, females increase their chances of successful reproduction and the survival of their offspring. This behavior is commonly observed in many bird species, where females assess the quality of potential mates based on their ability to provide resources and protect the nest.

Natural selection is a process that occurs within a single species, where individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to future generations. The existence of enough species is not a prerequisite for natural selection because it operates within a single species, not between different species. The other options, such as variation, fitness consequences, mode of inheritance, and limited resources, are all necessary factors for natural selection to occur within a species.

Red Foxes demonstrate the tamping and scooping technique of food caching. This technique involves using their front paws to tamp or press down on the ground to create a shallow hole, and then using their snouts to scoop and bury their prey, such as small mammals or birds, in the hole. This behavior helps them hide and store food for later consumption, especially during times of scarcity or when they have excess food.

Androgenic steroid hormones, such as testosterone, are known to play a significant role in aggression. These hormones are primarily produced in the testes in males and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands in females. Testosterone is associated with increased aggression and dominance behaviors in both males and females. It affects brain regions involved in aggression, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Research has shown that individuals with higher levels of testosterone tend to display more aggressive behaviors. Therefore, androgenic steroid hormones are considered the main hormonal cause for aggression.

The equation n(n-1)/2 is commonly used to calculate the number of possible interactions or connections between n individuals in a social group. Each individual can potentially interact with every other individual except themselves, resulting in n-1 possible interactions for each individual. By summing up these interactions for all individuals, we get the total number of interactions, which is n(n-1)/2. Therefore, the statement "The equation to study social behaviour can be described as n(n-1)/2" is true.

In socially sophisticated species, such as primates or wolves, aggressive behaviors are often influenced by rank or social hierarchy. This means that individuals higher in the social hierarchy are more likely to display aggressive behaviors towards those lower in rank. This can be observed in various social interactions, such as competition for resources or establishing dominance. By understanding the dynamics of rank and aggression, researchers can gain insights into the complex social structures of these species.

Intra

Omega

Neophobia is indeed defined as an extreme fear or dislike of anything new or unfamiliar. Therefore, the statement "True" is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the definition of neophobia.

According to the general theory proposed by Spinka, it is believed that we acquire experience through unexpected events where we lose control. This suggests that when we encounter situations that are unexpected and beyond our control, we are more likely to learn and gain experience from them. Therefore, the statement "True" indicates that the theory suggests that experience is gained through unexpected events with loss of control.

Opposite

The statement suggests that there is uncertainty about the cause and effect relationship between an increase in locomotor play and the number of cerebellum synapses. It is not clear whether an increase in locomotor play leads to more cerebellum synapses or if it is the other way around. Therefore, the answer "True" indicates that the statement is correct in stating this uncertainty.

Play and aggression are often seen as two opposite behaviors in animals. Play is typically characterized by non-threatening, voluntary, and enjoyable activities, while aggression involves hostile, forceful, and potentially harmful actions. In this context, the statement "Play and Aggression are inverted" means that the presence of play behavior tends to reduce the occurrence of aggressive behavior. This is supported by research showing that engaging in play can serve as a social bonding mechanism, promote empathy, and provide an outlet for pent-up energy or frustration, thus reducing the likelihood of aggressive interactions.

Callitrichids, which include marmosets and tamarins, demonstrate monogamy. Monogamy refers to the practice of forming a long-term pair bond with a single partner. In the case of Callitrichids, they typically form monogamous breeding pairs and both parents actively participate in raising their offspring. This behavior is in contrast to wolves, elephants, and rats, which do not typically exhibit monogamy.

The statement is true because the genus Neovision indeed includes both the American river mink and the European Sea Mink. This means that these two species belong to the same genus, indicating a close evolutionary relationship between them.

Mammals and birds are true homeothermic animals because they are endothermic, meaning they generate their own body heat to maintain a constant internal temperature. This is in contrast to ectothermic animals like reptiles, amphibians, and fish, which rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.

During the Skinner's Project Orcon, pigeons were used to pilot missiles. This project was a behavioral experiment conducted by psychologist B.F. Skinner in the 1940s. The idea was to train pigeons to peck at a target image on a screen, which would then guide the missile towards the target. The pigeons were conditioned to associate the target image with a reward, and their natural ability to fly and navigate was utilized in this project. While unconventional, using pigeons as missile pilots was an attempt to explore alternative methods of guidance during that time.

The answer "=/=" suggests that social learning and cultural transmission are not the same. This means that while social learning may involve acquiring knowledge and skills from others in a social context, cultural transmission refers specifically to the transfer of cultural information, beliefs, and practices from one generation to another. Social learning can be a part of cultural transmission, but it is not synonymous with it.

Natural selection is considered the most important force of change in the evolution of behavior because it is the process by which certain traits or behaviors that increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction become more common in a population over time. Traits or behaviors that are advantageous in a particular environment are more likely to be passed on to future generations, leading to the evolution of behavior. Other forces of change, such as genetic drift or mutation, may also play a role, but natural selection is generally considered the driving force behind adaptive behavior.

The correct answer is Domestic Ferret. Domestication refers to the process of taming and breeding animals for human companionship and use. Among the options provided, only the Domestic Ferret has been successfully domesticated. The Romans were known to have domesticated this species, which is a member of the mustelid family. Mustelids are a diverse group of carnivorous mammals that include skunks, rats, and weasels, but only the ferret has been domesticated.

Paedomorphic

The Eastern Weasel does not turn white during the winter. This is because the Eastern Weasel does not have the ability to change its fur color to blend in with the snowy environment like other animals on the list. Instead, the Eastern Weasel retains its brown color throughout the year.

The runaway selection theory suggests that male ornaments play a role in influencing the choice of females. According to this theory, females are likely to choose males with certain attractive features, and these features are then passed on to their sons. This creates a cycle where males with these features become more and more exaggerated over time, as females continue to prefer them. Therefore, the correct answer is the runaway selection theory.

Red foxes are known for exhibiting good alloparental care, where the daughters from past seasons stay to assist their mother in raising the current litter. This behavior is advantageous as it helps in the survival and success of the offspring. The presence of older siblings helps in providing food, protection, and teaching important skills to the younger siblings, ultimately increasing their chances of survival. This cooperative behavior is commonly observed in red foxes, making them the correct answer.

If any, Birds

The direct benefits theory suggests that females choose mates based on the immediate benefits they can provide. In this context, the survival and reproductive value of the mate is important because females are looking for resources that males can contribute. This theory emphasizes the practical advantages that a male can offer, such as food, protection, or territory. Therefore, the male's "selling points" become crucial in attracting a female mate.

The explanation for the correct answer, Good Genes theory, is that it suggests that females have the ability to identify males with good genes, which will be translated into good phenotypes in their offspring. This theory assumes that females have evolved to select mates based on their genetic quality, as well as their ability to avoid cheating behaviors.

The runaway selection theory is not related to the good genes theory. The good genes theory suggests that certain traits in individuals indicate their genetic quality and attractiveness as potential mates. This theory focuses on traits like the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC), which is involved in immune system functioning. Endoparasites in males can also be seen as an indicator of good genes, as males with a stronger immune system are less likely to be affected by parasites. The handicap hypothesis suggests that certain costly traits in individuals indicate their genetic quality, while the runaway selection theory explains the evolution of exaggerated traits through sexual selection.

The Southern Flying Squirrels is the correct answer because they are a species found in Southern Quebec and other areas of Northern America, and they have the unique ability of flying.

Tamping and scattering is not characteristic of salamanders. Salamanders do not typically engage in this behavior. The other options listed are all characteristics that are commonly associated with salamanders. Salamanders may exhibit a nose-tapping response, have a nasolabial groove, scent mark with pheromones, and undergo brooding or direct development.

The reason "Higher number of females" is not a reason for choosy females because the concept of choosiness in females typically arises when there is competition among males for mating opportunities. In such cases, females have the luxury of being selective and choosing the most desirable mate. However, the number of females present does not directly influence their level of choosiness.

Surreptitious mating, cuckoldry, sneak-mating

Social play does not have a direct role in the development of physical environment knowledge. While social play can contribute to the development of various skills and behaviors, such as coalition formation, self-assessment, physical skills, and formation of social bonds, it does not specifically aid in the acquisition of knowledge about the physical environment. This knowledge is typically gained through other means such as exploration, observation, and learning from others.

Living in groups can lead to increased competition for resources, as individuals within the group must compete for limited food, water, and shelter. This can result in individuals not getting enough resources to survive and reproduce successfully. Additionally, living in close proximity with others increases the chance of the spread of diseases. Diseases can easily pass from one individual to another in a group setting, leading to higher rates of infection and illness. Interference with reproduction is also a disadvantage of living in groups, as competition for mates can result in individuals being unable to find suitable partners or being prevented from mating by dominant individuals.

The given answer, "Mate Systems," is not one of the four levels of the gregariousness continuum. The gregariousness continuum refers to the different levels of social behavior exhibited by animals. The four levels include Solitary, Aggregations, Group permanence + Identity, and Personal relationships within the group (Social group). "Mate Systems" is not a level of social behavior but rather refers to the different ways in which animals form and maintain mating relationships.

In stable hierarchies, dominant animals typically experience lower levels of cortisol, which is a hormone associated with stress. This is because dominant animals have established their position and face less competition and conflict within the social group. As a result, they experience less stress and have lower cortisol levels compared to subordinate animals who may face more challenges and social pressures. Therefore, the statement "In stable hierarchies, animals who are dominant have lower levels of cortisol (stress)" is true.

Diamond is the correct answer because the book "Personality and Temperament" was written by William Diamond.

Dominance hierarchy conflicts involve various factors, including frequency, duration, and intensity. These factors determine the power dynamics and social ranking within a group. However, sex is not a factor that directly influences dominance hierarchy conflicts. While there may be differences in behavior between males and females in certain species, it is not a defining factor in determining dominance within a group.

Epimeletic behaviors refer to care-giving or nurturing behaviors. This can include actions such as grooming, feeding, or protecting others. It is a form of altruistic behavior where an individual provides assistance or support to another individual. This term is commonly used in the study of animal behavior to describe behaviors observed in social animals.

Et-epimeletic refers to care-soliciting behaviors, which are actions or signals displayed by an individual to seek assistance or attention from others. This term specifically describes behaviors related to seeking care or nurturing from conspecifics. Therefore, et-epimeletic is the correct answer as it directly relates to the concept of care-soliciting behaviors.

Least dangerous

The benefits of play fighting, as stated by Biben, include behavioral flexibility, gauging the intention of others, and learning about social hierarchies. Play fighting allows individuals to practice and adapt their behaviors in a safe and controlled environment, enhancing their ability to respond flexibly to different situations. It also helps individuals develop the skill of accurately interpreting the intentions of others, which is crucial for social interactions. Additionally, play fighting provides opportunities for individuals to learn and understand the dynamics of social hierarchies, helping them navigate and establish their position within a group.

The correct answer is Anxiety. In Gosling's studies of spotted hyenas, anxiety is not mentioned as one of the five personality traits described. The traits described are assertiveness, excitability, agreeableness (human-directed), sociability, and curiosity.

The triad of the mind refers to three dimensions that are commonly studied in psychology: cognitive dimensions, conative (motivational) dimensions, and affective (emotional) dimensions. These dimensions represent different aspects of human cognition and behavior. Temporal (sequencing) dimensions, on the other hand, refer to the organization and perception of time, which is not directly related to the cognitive, motivational, or emotional processes of the mind. Therefore, temporal dimensions are not considered part of the triad of the mind.

The Situational Specificity Theory, proposed by Mischel, suggests that there is limited cross-situational consistency in personality. This means that individuals may behave differently in different situations, challenging the idea of a fixed personality trait that remains consistent across various contexts. Therefore, the correct answer, "True," supports the notion that cross-situational consistency in personality may be a myth.

Male fish being bold, rather than their color, makes them more attractive to females. This suggests that the females prioritize boldness as a desirable trait in males. The statement implies that color does not play a significant role in attracting females, indicating that boldness is a more important factor in mate selection for female fish.

The statement suggests that great tits who are "fast" are also nonaggressive, avoid novel objects, and do not change their foraging patterns. However, the correct answer is false, indicating that this statement is not true. This means that there is no evidence or support for the claim that fast great tits exhibit these specific behaviors.

The statement is true because the elephant nose fish indeed has the largest cerebellum among all vertebrates. The cerebellum is the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement and balance. In the case of the elephant nose fish, their large cerebellum helps them navigate and maneuver through their complex underwater environment. This adaptation allows them to be highly skilled in detecting and capturing prey, making their cerebellum larger than any other vertebrate.

An ethogram is indeed an inventory or catalogue that documents and describes all the behavioral patterns exhibited by a particular species. It is a comprehensive and systematic record that includes various behaviors such as feeding, mating, communication, and social interactions. By creating an ethogram, researchers can gain a better understanding of the species' behavior and use this information for various purposes, such as studying their ecology, evolution, and conservation.

Alloparental care refers to the care given to offspring by individuals other than the biological parents, such as grandparents, siblings, or other relatives. This can include activities like feeding, protecting, or nurturing the young ones. Therefore, the statement that alloparental care is provided by a kin other than the mother or father is true.

FAP's stands for Fixed Action Pattern and can be synonymous with instinctive movements, erbkoordination, and inborn skills. A fixed action pattern refers to a sequence of behaviors that is triggered by a specific stimulus and is performed in a rigid and stereotyped manner. These behaviors are innate and do not require learning or experience. FAP's are commonly observed in animals and are important for survival and reproduction.

The given answer "True" is correct because the question does not provide any context or information to determine the accuracy of the statement "Timbergern, Lorenz and Firsch." Therefore, without any additional information, it is assumed that the statement is true.

Reptiles, birds, and mammals are classified as amniotes because they all possess an amniotic egg or give birth to live young. Amniotes are a group of animals that have a specialized membrane called the amnion, which surrounds and protects the developing embryo. This adaptation allows them to reproduce on land, unlike amphibians and fish that rely on water for reproduction. Therefore, the statement "Reptiles birds and mammals are amniotes" is true.

Precocial

Tinbergen is the correct answer because he was one of the pioneers in the field of animal behavior and made significant contributions to our understanding of it. He is known for his four questions approach, which includes studying the causation, development, function, and evolution of behavior. Tinbergen's work laid the foundation for modern ethology and his research on animal behavior has had a lasting impact on the field.

European Red Squirrels are known to bury nuts in various locations as a way of storing food for the winter. This behavior is called "caching." Even when there is no earth available, they have been observed burying nuts in wire cages or other unconventional places. This shows their adaptability and resourcefulness in finding alternative methods to store their food. Western Chipmunks, Eastern Chipmunks, and Western Red Squirrels may also engage in caching behavior, but the given information suggests that European Red Squirrels are the species that specifically bury nuts in a wire cage even with no earth available.

Diversity is not evidence for evolution because it is a result of evolution. Evolution is the process by which species change and diversify over time, so the presence of diversity in the natural world is actually a consequence of evolution. The other options listed (Molecular Genetics, Embryology, Anatomy and Morphology, Biogeography, Palentology) are all fields of study that provide evidence for evolution by examining genetic, developmental, anatomical, geographical, and fossil evidence respectively.

Mutations

The given answer, "Parental component: Correlated with biparental care," is the correct answer because it contradicts one of the criteria mentioned in the question, which is "Not one of the five criteria to recognize play." The other criteria listed in the question include "Not completely functional: No obvious direct benefit," "Endogenous component: spontaneous, voluntary, rewarding," "Structural/temporal difference: Not serious, awkward," "Repeated: Repetitions, stereotyped," and "Relaxed field: Animal is well and not ill." The parental component being correlated with biparental care does not fit into any of these criteria.

Symbiosis model

FAPs, or Fixed Action Patterns, are genetically encoded behaviors that are specific to a stimulus. They are spontaneous, meaning they are not consciously controlled. FAPs are not influenced by individual differences or learning, and they do not depend on sensory feedback. They are also independent of immediate control. Additionally, FAPs are predictable, as they follow a sequence of actions. However, the speed of the process is not a characteristic of FAPs.

Raccoon dog

African Wild Dogs have the best paternal care among the given options. They live in packs and have a highly organized social structure. The dominant male and female in the pack are the only ones to breed, and the rest of the pack members help in raising the pups. Both males and females take turns caring for the young, providing them with food, protection, and teaching them important survival skills. This cooperative parenting behavior ensures the survival and well-being of the pups, making African Wild Dogs stand out for their exceptional paternal care.

Epistasis refers to the interaction between different genes, where the expression of one gene is influenced by the presence of another gene. It is not related to the inheritance of alleles on the same chromosome. The inheritance of alleles on the same chromosome is governed by the principles of genetic linkage and recombination. Therefore, the statement that alleles on the same chromosome are more likely to be inherited together is false.

not-available-via-ai

The types of aggression mentioned - proactive, instrumental, and incentive-motivated - can be described as non-aggression because they do not involve direct physical or verbal harm towards others. These types of aggression are more planned in nature, as they involve deliberate actions or strategies to achieve a goal. Additionally, they are reward-centered, meaning that the individual engages in aggressive behavior in order to obtain some form of reward or benefit.

The bold-shy experiment is a behavioral test used to measure an animal's response to a novel object or situation. In this experiment, the animal is classified as either bold (approaching the object) or shy (avoiding the object). The experiment was primarily tested with pumpkinseed fish, which are known for their bold and exploratory behavior. This species was likely chosen because they are easily accessible and their behavior can be easily observed and measured in a controlled laboratory setting.

Hippocrates and Galen

In a sequential assessment, when opponents are evenly matched, they are more likely to engage in dangerous behavior first. This can be explained by the competitive nature of evenly matched opponents who are eager to gain an advantage over each other. By engaging in dangerous behavior early on, they hope to intimidate or gain an upper hand over their opponent. This behavior is driven by the desire to establish dominance and assert their strength in the competition.

Five

A behavioral syndrome occurs when individuals behave in a consistent way through time or across contexts, similar to personality or temperament. This means that regardless of the situation or environment, individuals with a behavioral syndrome tend to exhibit the same patterns of behavior. This consistency in behavior can be observed across various contexts and over a period of time, indicating a stable and predictable behavioral pattern.

Decisiveness is not an example of domain-specific individual differences for the candidate behaviour approach because it is a general trait that can apply to various domains and situations. The other options, such as the Shy-Bold axis, Proactive-reactive axis, Aggressiveness, Neophobia, and Exploratory behaviour, are all specific traits that can be measured and evaluated within the context of candidate behavior and their suitability for specific roles or tasks.

GABA is not a play arousing neurochemical. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that helps to reduce neuronal excitability. It has a calming effect on the brain and is involved in regulating anxiety and sleep. In contrast, acetylcholine, glutamate, opioids (low dose), and dopamine (low dose) are all neurotransmitters that can have stimulating or arousing effects on the brain.

Bekoff's definition of play is not a structural definition, but rather a functional one. This means that it emphasizes the purpose or function of play, rather than its specific form or structure.

Anamniotes is the term for animals that lay their eggs in water, excluding reptiles, birds, and mammals. This group includes amphibians and fish, which rely on water to reproduce and develop their eggs. Amniotes, on the other hand, are a group of animals that have an amniotic egg, which allows them to reproduce on land without the need for water. Therefore, the correct answer is Anamniotes.

E.O. Wilson started Sociobiology with his book "Sociobiology: The new Synthesis".

Comparative Psychology is closely correlated to behaviorism because it focuses on the study of animal behavior through observation and experimentation, using the principles and methods of behaviorism. Behaviorism emphasizes the objective study of observable behavior and the influence of environmental factors on behavior. Comparative Psychology aims to understand behavior by comparing different species and analyzing their similarities and differences, which aligns with the behaviorist approach of studying behavior in a systematic and scientific manner.

Maternal care is not a facilitating factor for domestication because it is a common behavior observed in both wild and domesticated animals. Domestication refers to the process of taming and adapting wild animals for human use, and factors such as gregariousness, imprinting, precociality, and an omnivorous diet are more closely associated with the domestication process. Maternal care, while important for the survival and well-being of offspring, does not directly contribute to the domestication process itself.

When we see an animal with neoteny features, such as large eyes or a baby-like appearance, it triggers a nurturing response in humans. This nurturing response is associated with the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding and social connection. Oxytocin is often referred to as the "love hormone" because it is released during positive social interactions, including those with animals. Therefore, when we see an animal with neoteny features, oxytocin is released more in our bodies.

Hormonal, related to the length of days and nights

Domesticated foxes are found to have more serotonin compared to a control group. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, emotions, and overall well-being. It is often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter as it helps to promote feelings of happiness and contentment. The increased levels of serotonin in domesticated foxes suggest that their domestication process has influenced their brain chemistry, potentially leading to more positive emotional states compared to their non-domesticated counterparts.

Lorenz stated that when judging neoteny, we take into account the head, eyes, chin, but not the ears.

The classification of mammalian social organization according to Poole is not based on hierarchy. This means that Poole does not consider the hierarchical structure within a social group as a defining factor in classifying mammalian social organization. Instead, Poole focuses on other factors such as sociability, sexual strategy, and territoriality to categorize mammalian social behavior.

The structure of a dominance hierarchy depends on stability, size, individuals, and resources. Mating, however, does not play a significant role in determining the structure of a dominance hierarchy. While mating may influence individual behavior within the hierarchy, it does not directly determine the overall structure. The dominance hierarchy is primarily established based on factors such as stability, size, and the availability of resources.

The statement suggests that shy (seined) fish adapt more quickly to being fed in the lab compared to trapped fish. However, the correct answer is false, indicating that this statement is not true. The explanation for this could be that trapped fish may have already been exposed to feeding in a controlled environment, such as a fish tank, before being trapped. Therefore, they may be more familiar with the feeding process in the lab compared to shy fish that are caught directly from their natural habitat.

In order to have strict linearity in a dominant hierarchy, three conditions must be met: absence of reversal, asymmetry, and transitivity. Absence of reversal means that once a dominant-subordinate relationship is established, it cannot be reversed. Asymmetry refers to the unequal distribution of power and authority within the hierarchy. Transitivity means that if A dominates B, and B dominates C, then A also dominates C. These three conditions ensure a clear and consistent hierarchy where each individual or group has a defined position of dominance or subordination.

In a group, roles can be restricted based on various factors such as age, sex, rank, and castes. These factors determine the responsibilities, duties, and privileges assigned to each individual within the group. Age may determine seniority or eligibility for certain roles, sex may determine gender-specific roles, rank may determine hierarchical positions and responsibilities, and castes may determine social status and roles within certain communities. Restricting roles based on these factors helps in maintaining order, organization, and efficiency within the group.

Aggressive or submissive acts can be displayed through different behaviors such as movement, vocalizations, and scent-marking. Movement can involve aggressive actions like charging or lunging, or submissive actions like retreating or avoiding eye contact. Vocalizations can include aggressive sounds like growling or hissing, or submissive sounds like whimpering or purring. Scent-marking is a behavior often used to establish territory or dominance, and can be done through urine or gland secretions. These behaviors are common ways for animals to communicate their aggression or submission to others in their social group.