Which of the following is true of innate behaviors? a. Their expression is only weakly influenced by genes. b. They occur with or without environmental stimuli. c. They are expressed in most individuals in a population. d. They occur in invertebrates and some vertebrates but not mammals.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key term: 'innate behaviors' are behaviors that are genetically hardwired and not learned, exhibited by an organism regardless of environmental conditions.
2. Analyze each option: a. Incorrect, because innate behaviors are strongly influenced by genes, not weakly.
3. b. Incorrect, because while innate behaviors do not require learning, they can still be triggered by specific environmental stimuli.
4. c. Correct, because innate behaviors are genetically programmed and thus expressed in most, if not all, individuals of a species.
5. d. Incorrect, because innate behaviors are found in all animals, including invertebrates, vertebrates, and mammals.

Key Concepts

Innate Behaviors

Innate behaviors are instinctual actions that are performed by an organism without prior experience or learning. These behaviors are typically hardwired in the organism's genetic makeup and can be observed across a species. Examples include reflexes and fixed action patterns, which are crucial for survival and reproduction.

Genetic Influence

The expression of innate behaviors is significantly influenced by genetic factors. While environmental stimuli can modify behavior, the underlying genetic predisposition plays a critical role in determining how these behaviors manifest. This genetic basis ensures that certain behaviors are consistently observed within a population.

Species-Wide Expression

Innate behaviors are generally expressed in most individuals of a species, indicating a common evolutionary adaptation. This universality suggests that such behaviors are beneficial for survival and reproduction, allowing species to respond effectively to environmental challenges. However, the presence of these behaviors can vary among different taxa, including invertebrates and vertebrates.