Many species of albatrosses and other seabirds nest in colonies on islands. The

Question

Many species of albatrosses and other seabirds nest in colonies on islands. The adult search for food at sea,sometimes over great distances. Some ecologists who study seabirds turn to their favorite topic of discussion in a bar one evening, and one says, “I can imagine an albatross genotype that destroys the eggs of nestlings of its colony mates when the parents are away foraging, and leaves them dead without eating them. Do you think such a behavior would evolve?” One of his companions says, “Yes, because it would make more food available for the albatross and its offspring.” Another says, “No, because it would threaten the survival of the population.” The fourth says, “You’re both wrong. I have a different explanation for why albatrosses don’t kill others’ chicks.” What is the fourth ecologist’s explanation, and why does she think her companions are wrong?

Explanation / Answer

if this behavior arises in a population then all population will die eventually and there will be no bird.

but if this genotype is present in a single bird soon it will wipe out after the death of that particular colony.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse M
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.