Unit 8.1 - Responses to the Environment

Innate vs. Learned Behavior

Innate behaviors are hardwired and inherited. These are performed correctly the first time (like a baby turtle heading to the ocean).

Learned behaviors are developed through experience (like a dog learning a trick).

Organisms often communicate to survive and reproduce. Communication can influence who gets to mate, who avoids danger, and how groups stay organized.

Cooperative Behavior and Altruism

Cooperative behavior happens when individuals work together (like wolves hunting in packs). This helps each individual get more food or protection.

Altruism is when one organism helps another at a cost to itself (like a meerkat sounding an alarm to warn others of danger).

Although it may seem like a sacrifice, altruism can increase the overall reproductive success of the group, especially if the individuals are related or live in tight social groups.