PrepTest 136, Section 3, Question 13
Traditional theories of animal behavior assert that animal(454 more words not shown)
Which one of the following(8 more words not shown)
- AEvolutionary game theory(21 more words not shown)
- BA. aperta in(16 more words not shown)
- CEvolutionary game theory(13 more words not shown)
- DThe traditional theory(17 more words not shown)
- EEvolutionary game theory,(19 more words not shown)
Reading the passage
We've already predicted the main point: evolutionary game theory offers a way to explain why these spiders vary their fighting behavior during territorial disputes. Riechert connects that behavior to the value of the site, the risks of fighting, and the availability of alternatives.
What we’re looking for
Look for the theory applied to the spider problem. An answer needn't name Riechert or the species exactly as we did, but it should preserve that connection.
Working the answers
- A
This describes the general uses of the two theories. Their comparison is background for explaining this particular spider behavior, which A leaves out. A true description of the theoretical tools isn't the main point of applying them here.
- B
The unusual variation is the problem the author wants explained. Stopping there leaves out evolutionary game theory, the proposed explanation that occupies most of the discussion.
- CCorrect
The theory may help explain these spiders' territorial behavior. Certain spiders is less specific than our wording, but the relationship between the theory and the disputes is the same. May also fits an account that gives predictions rather than confirmed experimental results.
- D
One spider case doesn't show that the traditional theory fails for most species. The author presents a mismatch worth explaining, not evidence for that sweeping rejection.
- E
Predicting behavior is part of the discussion, but the relevant behavior is how spiders conduct territorial disputes. This shifts the focus to choosing sites. The availability of sites affects the fighting; site selection itself isn't the central problem.
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