The Role of Altruism in Animal Behavior

Understanding Altruism in Animal Behavior

Animal behavior, specifically how some species engage in selfless acts that benefit others at their own expense, is a fascinating topic. Altruism is observed in various animals, including meerkats.

Meerkats live in groups where some individuals take on sentry duty, watching for predators while others forage. The sentry puts itself at risk by standing guard, enabling the rest of the group to safely search for food. This behavior increases the survival chances of the group as a whole.

Such altruistic acts are crucial for the social structure and survival of the species, demonstrating that natural selection can favor traits that benefit the group, even if they are costly to the individual.

Key Points

Altruism in animal behavior involves selfless acts benefiting others at a personal cost. Example: Meerkats have sentries that watch for predators, allowing others to forage. Altruism enhances group survival and is favored by natural selection.

Sample Answer

In the lecture, the professor explains altruism in animal behavior, focusing on how some animals perform selfless actions for the benefit of their group. The main idea is that altruism involves acts that help others, even at a personal cost. The professor gives the example of meerkats, where certain members act as sentries to alert the group of predators, risking their own safety. This behavior allows the group to forage safely and increases their overall survival.

In conclusion, altruism benefits the group's survival and is an essential aspect of animal social structures.