In: Biology
Come up with five different alternative hypotheses to explain why a species of fish might show schooling behaviour. Use the form, "Natural selection might select for schooling behavior in fish since fish that exhibit schooling behavior would leave more offspring than fish that don't exhibit schooling behavior because...
Schooling behavior: Collective animal behavior in which a group of organisms stay together and move in the same direction.
Ex: Fish
Advantages of schooling behavior in fishes: (Hypotheses to explain why a species of fish might show schooling behavior)
i. To swim more efficiently against the stream: The streamlined movement of the fish group provides additional thrust force for movement.
ii. Better protection against predators: The group may threaten the predator by forming a large association.
iii. The higher success of finding a mate: It is always i=easier to find a mate in a group than in isolation.
iv. Reducing the chances of individual capture: The individual capture rate is low in a group
v. Enhanced foraging success: If a group member finds a=food, it can lead other members to that site.
vi. Better care of young progeny: The progeny can be provided better nutritional care and protection in a group.
All these features help a fish to survive and reproduce successfully.