Learning & Ethology: Ethologists

Question 1

Ethology

Answer 1

The study of animal behavior under natural conditions.

Question 2

Species-Typical Behavior

Answer 2

Behaviors that are characteristics of a particular species

Question 3

Niko Tinbergen

Answer 3

Introduced experimental methods into the field.

Question 4

Fixed-Action Patterns

Answer 4

A complex stereotyped behavior sequence that does not have to be learned by the animal

Question 5

Sign Stimuli

Answer 5

Features of the stimulus that are sufficient to bring about a particular fixed-action pattern.

Question 6

Releasers

Answer 6

A sign stimulus that functions as signals from one animal to another.

Question 7

Supernormal Stimulus

Answer 7

A model that is more effective at triggering a fixed-action pattern that the actual sign stimulus found in nature.

Question 8

Innate Releasing Mechanism

Answer 8

A mechanism in the animal’s nervous system that connects sign stimuli with the current fixed action pattern.

Question 9

Reproductive Isolating Mechanisms

Answer 9

Behaviors that prevent animals of one species from attempting to mate with animals of a closely related species.

Question 10

Steps in Natural Selection

Answer 10

1. There are genetic difference between members of a species.
2. If a specific genetic variation increases the chances of reproduction, it will tend to be passed down to the next generation. (and vice versa)
3. Over time, more and more members of the species will tend to have the genetic variation that increases their chances of reproduction and vice versa

Question 11

Reproductive Fitness

Answer 11

Taking into account the number of offspring that live to be old enough to reproduce.

Question 12

Inclusive Fitness

Answer 12

Taking into account the number of offspring that live to be old enough to reproduce and the number of other relatives who live to reproductive stage.