[Campbell Biology P.1189] Based on the description provided, which characteristic is MOST def... | Practice Question

Based on the description provided, which characteristic is MOST definitive of a fixed action pattern?

  • A: It is a learned behavior that can be modified through experience.
  • B: It is a sequence of unlearned acts that, once initiated, usually goes to completion.
  • C: It requires complex cognitive processing and decision-making.
  • D: It is highly variable in its expression and depends on environmental feedback.

Explanation

The text defines a fixed action pattern as "a sequence of unlearned acts directly linked to a simple stimulus" and states that they are "essentially unchangeable and, once initiated, are usually carried to completion." This option directly combines these key definitional elements.