Correct option is A
(a) If adult survivorship is higher for group members than for solitary individuals
Philopatry refers to the tendency of individuals to remain in or return to their natal area or group. In cooperatively breeding species, helpers are more likely to exhibit philopatry when they benefit from staying in the group, particularly when the survivorship of group members is higher than that of solitary individuals. This suggests that remaining within the group increases the individual's chances of survival, which provides a strong incentive for helping others and staying within the group, rather than dispersing and potentially facing higher risks as a solitary individual. The social structure of cooperative breeding, where individuals assist in rearing offspring, often results in indirect fitness benefits, and higher survival prospects can further encourage philopatry.
Information Booster
Adult survivorship: In many cooperative species, group living offers protection from predators, easier access to food resources, and more opportunities for reproductive success. When group members have a higher probability of survival than solitary individuals, the fitness benefits of remaining in the group increase. Helpers who stay in the group can contribute to raising offspring, thereby enhancing their indirect fitness.
Cooperative breeding: In cooperative breeding, individuals assist in the care of offspring that are not their own. This is often seen in birds, mammals, and insects, where helpers stay in their natal groups to gain indirect benefits, such as increased chances of inheriting territory or access to mates in the future.
Additional Information
Option (b): When resources are abundant and widely distributed, individuals might not need to stay in the group to gain access to food or shelter. Therefore, this condition is less likely to lead to philopatry. If resources are not scarce, the incentive for helping in the group diminishes.
Option (c): If the chance of acquiring territory is higher, individuals may be motivated to leave the group to establish their own territory, reducing their likelihood of exhibiting philopatry. This would generally encourage dispersal rather than staying and helping.
Option (d): If the possibility of acquiring mates is higher outside the group, individuals may choose to disperse to find mates, further discouraging philopatry. The potential for reproducing outside the group is a key factor that may reduce the desire to remain in the natal group.
