Problem 7 - Biology: The Dynamic Science

Question

Social behavior: a. is exhibited only by animals that live in groups with close relatives. b. cannot evolve in animals that maintain territories. c. evolved because group living provides benefits to individuals in the group. d. is never observed in insects and other invertebrate animals. e. can be explained only by the hypothesis of kin selection.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is c. Group living often provides benefits to individuals in the group, which can drive the evolution of social behavior.

Step 1: Analyze each statement

Examine each statement individually. Assess them based on your understanding of social behavior in different species.

Step 2: Evaluate Statement a

Social behavior is seen in many animal species, including the ones that do not necessarily live in groups with close relatives. Many solitary animals demonstrate social behavior in certain contexts. So, statement a. is incorrect.

Step 3: Evaluate Statement b

Territorial animals also exhibit social behavior, especially during mating seasons, in conflict resolution, during parenting, etc. Thus, statement b. is not accurate.

Step 4: Evaluate Statement c

Living in groups does provide benefits to individuals in a group like improved foraging efficiency, better protection from predators, etc. These benefits can drive the evolution of social behavior. Therefore, statement c. can be considered correct.

Step 5: Evaluate Statement d

Insects and other invertebrates, particularly social insects like ants, bees, termites, display complex social behaviors. Hence, statement d. is false.

Step 6: Evaluate Statement e

While kin selection can drive the evolution of social behavior, it's not the sole explanation. Group selection, reciprocal altruism are other probable theories. Thus, statement e. is faulty.