Generally,in Cases of Polygamy,male Birds Are Smaller and More Colorful

question 57

Multiple Choice

Generally,in cases of polygamy,male birds are smaller and more colorful (but at greater risk to predators) while females are larger (with more nutritional resources) and duller colored (and therefore more camouflaged) .In such a system,the female invests much in her young while the male tries to spread his genes as much as possible.In the opposite and very rare system of polyandry,the male may invest in caring for his young in one nest while the female does not care for the young but travels around to court males and spread her genes as much as possible.In such a case,we should expect

• A)the female bird would be larger to provide energy for all the flying.
• B)the male bird would be larger and more brightly colored.
• C)the male bird would be larger and camouflaged.
• D)the male bird would be smaller but camouflaged.
• E)None of the choices is correct

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Definitions:

Phenotype

A person's observable physical traits, such as eye color, hair color, or height.

Genotype

The genetic constitution of an individual organism, determining inherited traits and often influencing phenotype.

Genetic Counseling

A medical specialty that helps prospective parents determine the probability that their children will inherit genetic defects and chromosomal abnormalities.

Behavioral Genetics

A discipline that investigates how genetics and environmental factors affect behavior.