Zoology

What is the term for the ability of an organism to maintain stable internal conditions?

Homeostasis.

What are the two types of taxis that animals may exhibit?

Photo taxis and geo taxis.

What is the difference between innate behaviors and learned behaviors?

Innate behaviors are instinctual and occur without learning; learned behaviors are acquired through experience.

What type of learning involves associating a neutral stimulus with a significant stimulus?

Classical conditioning.

What are the costs of behavior that animals must consider?

Energy expenditure, opportunity costs, and risks.

What is the term for the practice of animals defending a specific area?

Territoriality.

What is the key characteristic of nocturnal animals?

Active during the night.

What is the difference between altruism and inclusive fitness?

Altruism involves selfless behavior that benefits others, while inclusive fitness includes the survival of shared genes, often seen in kin selection.

What type of behavior is characterized by cooperation among individuals for mutual benefit?

Social behavior.

What is the term for the phenomenon where animals live in a difficult environment despite challenges?

Adaptations for survival.

What is the primary function of nematocysts in Cnidarians?

To capture prey and defend against threats.

What are the defining features of Chordates?

Notochord, hollow nerve cord, post-anal tail, and pharyngeal slits.

What is the significance of 'cryptic coloration' in animals?

It helps animals avoid detection by predators.

What adaptations help birds with flight?

Airfoil wing design and lightweight bones.

In terms of reproduction, what distinguishes eutherians from monotremes and marsupials?

Eutherians are placental mammals giving birth to fully developed young.

What is the role of a biological clock in animal behavior?

To regulate circadian rhythms and daily activities.

What is the electromagnetic spectrum in relation to aquatic environments?

It refers to the range of wavelengths of light that can be absorbed, reflected, or refracted in water.

What is meant by the term 'fitness' in the context of animal behavior?

It refers to an organism's ability to survive, reproduce, and pass on genes to the next generation.

What is 'optimal foraging' in animal behavior?

It's a strategy that maximizes the energy gained from food relative to the energy spent on finding and gathering it.