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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is characteristic of polygamous primate societies?
A
Each male forms a lifelong pair bond with a single female.
B
All individuals in the group are genetically identical.
C
Females typically leave the group after reaching maturity.
D
Males often compete for access to multiple females.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'polygamous primate societies': In biology, polygamy refers to a mating system where an individual has multiple mating partners during a breeding season. In primates, this often involves males competing for access to multiple females.
Analyze the first option: 'Each male forms a lifelong pair bond with a single female.' This describes monogamy, not polygamy, so it is not characteristic of polygamous primate societies.
Analyze the second option: 'All individuals in the group are genetically identical.' This is not biologically accurate for any primate society, as genetic diversity is a natural characteristic of sexually reproducing populations.
Analyze the third option: 'Females typically leave the group after reaching maturity.' In many primate societies, it is often males, not females, that leave their natal group to avoid inbreeding. This is not a defining feature of polygamous societies.
Analyze the fourth option: 'Males often compete for access to multiple females.' This is a key characteristic of polygamous primate societies, as males typically engage in competition to maximize their reproductive success by mating with multiple females.