Evolution
Evolution
4th Edition
ISBN: 9781605356051
Author: Douglas Futuyma, Mark Kirkpatrick
Publisher: SINAUER
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Chapter 11, Problem 1PDT
Summary Introduction

To determine: The pattern of changes one can predict on the basis of life history theory.

Introduction: Life history theory can be defined as a branch of evolutionary biology and ecology that aims to explain and predict the recognizable patterns in the life histories of organisms. It is an analytical framework by which different strategies adapted by living organisms can be precisely studied.

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Explanation of Solution

The life history theory is related to the processes which occur in the life of an individual, such as growth, reproduction, and survival of organisms. On the basis of life history theory, one could predict the pattern of changes in the case of female parasitoid wasps. This insect search for insect hosts for laying eggs and often does discrimination among more or less suitable host. The life history theory predicts that females which are older should not be choosy regarding the selection of their host in which they have to lay eggs.

When the time of reproduction would be running out, female wasps should attempt to have multiple numbers of offsprings. It should be done for increasing the survival rates of some offspring, rather wait for a more or less suitable host.

Summary Introduction

To determine: The prediction of life history theory about animal behavior.

Introduction: Life history theory can be defined as a branch of evolutionary biology and ecology that aims to explain and predict the recognizable patterns in the life histories of organisms. It is an analytical framework by which different strategies adapted by living organisms can be precisely studied.

Expert Solution
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Explanation of Solution

Life history theory suggests that there is a risk of death of animals in the absence of reproduction process. Hence, optimality theory is very essential for the adaptations which are associated with the evolution of life on the Earth. Therefore, life history theory is very essential for studying animal behavior.

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Female parasitoid wasps search for insect hosts in which to lay eggs, and they can often discriminate among individual hosts that are more or less suitable for their offspring. Behavioral ecologists have asked whether or not the wasps’ willingness to lay eggs in less suitable hosts varies with the female’s age. On the basis of life history theory, what pattern of change would you predict? Does life history theory make any other predictions about animal behavior?
Which research question does not refer to proximate causes of behavior?   a.) How do rhesus macaques find their food? b.) how do pigeons that are experimentally displaced find their way back to their home loft? c.) How does dispersal affect the survival of Belding's ground squirrels? d.) Do mother goats learn the odor of their offspring? e.) How do hummingbirds “know” when it is time to return to their overwintering grounds?
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