Chapter 31, Problem 23A

Summary Introduction

Introduction: The study of the interaction of living things with each other and their environment is known as ecology. Every animal interacts with each other, and it can be within the members of the same species or the members of the different species.

Answer to Problem 23A

Correct answer:

The correct answer is option (b) courting.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/justification for the correct answer:

Option (b) courting. The behavior developed by animals to attract a mate is known as courting behavior. Animals indicate courtship signals by either displaying some bright colored parts of their body or making sounds. This is species-specific and is essential in ensuring the reproductive success of a species.

Explanation for incorrect answer:

Option (a) altruism. The behavior of an organism that benefits the other organism at the cost of itself is known as altruism. Hence, species reproduction will be reduced if an animal behaves altruistically.

Option (c) foraging. Finding and eating food is related to foraging behavior. If the animal forages successfully, it means that it is obtaining needed nutrients and is also avoiding predators and poisonous foods. It involves the trade-off between a food’s energy content and the cost of finding, pursuing and eating it.

Option (d) migration. The behavior in some animals due to which they move to some other place basically to long distances seasonal to new locations is migration behavior or migratory behavior.

Conclusion

Hence, the behavior directly related to species reproductive success is option (b) courting.