Chapter 43, Problem 2CT

Summary Introduction

To explain: The reason why researchers suspect that the ecological factors, not genetic ones, were the most important selective force in Damaraland mole-rat altruism.

Concept introduction: Altruism is a process when an organism behaves in a way that benefits others instead of being harmed or risking oneself. Eusocial animals are the colonial groups that live in multi-generational family groups where the sterile individuals will work for the reproductive success of others. The only way to develop the altruistic behavior is through kin selection.