[Campbell Biology P.1201] Based on the information provided regarding zebra finch mate choice... | Practice Question

Based on the information provided regarding zebra finch mate choice and Figure 51.18, which statement is TRUE about the experimental findings?

  • A: Female offspring raised by an ornamented male parent showed no specific preference for ornamented or non-ornamented mates.
  • B: Male offspring from all experimental groups consistently preferred non-ornamented female mates.
  • C: Chicks imprinted on their parents' ornamentation before their eyes opened, influencing their later mate preferences.
  • D: Female offspring raised by non-ornamented male parents exclusively preferred ornamented males.

Explanation

The text explicitly mentions that the red feather was taped to the forehead of the parents 'when their chicks were 8 days old, approximately 2 days before they opened their eyes.' It then concludes, 'Thus, female finches apparently take cues from their fathers in choosing mates,' indicating that this early exposure led to imprinting and influenced later mate choice.