Question

Which of the following statements on the concept of inclusive fitness explain altruistic behavior in animals?

• A. Altruism is the result of learning and occurs in most social species.
• B. Altruism results in the production of a greater number of offspring.
• C. Altruism lowers stress in altruistic individuals, which increases fitness.
• D. Altruism results in other individuals performing altruistic acts in return.
• E. Altruism increases the number of young of genetically similar individuals.

Answer 1

The correct option is E Altruism increases the number of young of genetically similar individuals.

The concept of inclusive fitness states that altruism can increase an individual's fitness by increasing the number of offspring produced by genetically similar individuals, such as siblings or parents. Alarm calls and care for the offspring of others are examples of altruistic acts.