Ethology

Question 1

In order for evolution to take place, what 3 conditions must be met?

Answer 1

1. Variation of traits
2. Different effects on reproductive success
3. Heritable - Traits passed onto next generation

Summarised by Darwin as “descent with modification”.

Question 2

What are Tinbergen’s 4 Questions?

Answer 2

How does it help improve survival? (Adaptive function)

How has it changed over time? (Evolutionary history/Phylogeny)

What internal & exernal factors make it happen? (Mechanism/Causation)

How does it change with maturity? (Development/Ontogeny)

Question 3

Tinbergen’s 4 questions are divided into what 2 categories?

Answer 3

Ultimate & Proximate causes.

Question 4

What are the 3 general approaches to studying behaviour?

Answer 4

Observational - Watch:
Simply observe the animal in it’s natural habitat or location of interest. Good for generating hypotheses and providing answers.

Manipulate Variables:
Experimental (lab or field). Causes and effects can be identified between other variables.

Comparative Approach:
Generate ideas from other species adaptive behaviour. Can identify if multiple species are adapting the same response to change.

Question 5

All studies in animal behaviour must adhere to what guidelines?

Answer 5

The ASAB (Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour) ethical guidelines.

Question 6

Russell & Birch created the 3R’s principles for animal research.

What are the 3R’s?

Answer 6

Replacement - Replace animals where possible

Reduction - Reduce numbers of animals/individuals involved

Refinement - Introduce improvements

Question 7

What does the term “In-silico” mean?

Answer 7

In-silico is the term used for experiments conducted by means of computer modelling or simulation.

Question 8

What type of appraoch is behaviour theory?

Answer 8

Behaviour theory is an integrative approach.

All elements must be considered together, and none of these factors can be studied in isolation.

Question 9

Name 2 major contributors in Ethology.

Answer 9

Charles Darwin
Considered the “father of animal behaviour”, with his work being an important contributor towards the field.

Nikolaas Tinbergen
Considered one of the founders of modern ethology. Discovered that birds preferred to brood eggs with exaggerated markings in the form of size, spots and colour. Developed the “4 questions”.

BF Skinner
Proposed that behaviour is highly plastic and is mainly learned, rather than instinctual.