8.1: Response to the Environment

How do organisms respond to changes in their environment?

through behavioral and/or physiological responses

What is a stimulus?

an external or internal signal or combination of signals that causes a response from an organism

What is a signaling behavior?

communication between organisms that changes their behavior

What does a signaling behavior produce?

differential reproductive success

List five types of communication mechanisms used in animals.

1) visual

2) audible

3) tactile

4) electrical

5) chemical

List 4 uses of the communication mechanisms.

1) indicate dominance

2) find food

3) establish territory

4) ensure reproductive success

What does natural selection favor?

favors innate and learned behaviors that increase survival and reproductive success

What is the difference between an innate and a learned behavior?

innate behaviors are genetically controlled and can occur without prior experience or training whilst learned behaviors are developed as a result of experience

What is a cooperative behavior?

behaviors which involve teamwork between organisms of the same species

Why do organisms use cooperative behaviors?

they increase individual fitness and population survival

What is aposematism?

warning traits used to discourage predation

What are some examples of aposematism?

1) markings (coral snakes with distinct coloring to indicate venom to potential predators)

2) behaviors and/or chemicals (skunks arching their back and raising their tails before spraying)

How do mammals establish territories?

they use communication mechanisms (visual, audible, tactile, electrical, and chemical signals)