behaviour

Question 1

why is it so important that an individual mates with a member of its own species ?

Answer 1

only members or the same species can produce fertile offspring

Question 2

describe a courtship behaviour

Answer 2

a genetically determined behaviour
all members of the same species are genetically programmed to show exactly the same courtship behaviour as they should have the same genes

Question 3

what does courtship behaviour do ?

Answer 3

can be used to identify individuals as members of the same or different species

Question 4

what are the functions of courtship behaviour?

Answer 4

• species recognition
• synchronising reproductive behaviour
• identifying s mate that is capable of breeding
• formation of a pair bond
• becoming able to breed

Question 5

explaining how a courtship song can be important in sucessful breeding

Answer 5

• different species will produce different songs ensuring they only mate with their own species
• song is especially important in nocturnal organisms and in areas like woodland, where visual displays will be ineffective (too dark)

Question 6

give some of the forms a courtship behaviour can take?

Answer 6

song, dance, display of breeding colours

the form it takes depends on a species habitat

Question 7

Describe synchronising reproductive behaviour

Answer 7

Ensures mating only takes place when there is maximum probability of sperm and egg meeting
In the correct stage In their reproductive cycle