MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 141: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 141

6. Female great reed warblers are attracted to males with larger song repertoires because they tend to produce offspring with higher viability. This is an example of which of the following?

  • A. Runaway selection
  • B. Sensory bias
  • C. Direct phenotypic benefits
  • D. Indirect phenotypic benefits

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

Phenotypic benefits refer to observed traits in an individual that make them more attractive to the opposite sex. Benefits associated with increased fitness through direct material advantages are direct benefits, choice (C), while indirect benefits involve increased genetic fitness for offspring.

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