The male cuttlefish in the chapter-opening photo can rapidly change their skin colors (under nerve control) to flash warning patterns to rivals. Predict the proximate and ultimate causes of this behavior.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the terms 'proximate' and 'ultimate' causes. Proximate causes in biology refer to the immediate physical or physiological mechanisms that lead to a particular trait or behavior. Ultimate causes, on the other hand, refer to the evolutionary pressures and reasons why a particular trait or behavior might have been favored by natural selection.
2. Step 2: Identify the proximate cause of the cuttlefish's color-changing behavior. The proximate cause is likely a response to a perceived threat or rival, triggered by the nervous system. The cuttlefish's skin contains specialized cells called chromatophores that can change color when stimulated by the nervous system.
3. Step 3: Identify the ultimate cause of the cuttlefish's color-changing behavior. The ultimate cause is likely related to survival and reproductive success. By flashing warning patterns, the cuttlefish can deter rivals and potential predators, increasing its chances of survival and reproduction.
4. Step 4: Formulate your prediction. Based on the above understanding, you can predict that the proximate cause of the cuttlefish's color-changing behavior is a nerve-triggered response to threats or rivals, and the ultimate cause is to increase survival and reproductive success by deterring rivals and predators.
5. Step 5: Remember that these are predictions based on our current understanding of biology and animal behavior. They could be tested and refined with further research and observations.