Question

8 explain the difference between the proximate - cause of a behavior and the ultimate cause.
9 as you walk around your backyard on a damp night with a flashlight pointed at the ground, you notice earthworms quickly recoiling into their burrows as you walk near them. speculate about the proximate and ultimate causes of this common behavior.

Explanation:

The proximate cause of a behavior is the immediate, mechanistic reason, such as physiological or environmental triggers. The ultimate cause is the evolutionary reason, related to survival and reproduction. For earthworms, a proximate cause could be the physical disturbance or light - change from the flashlight as a stimulus that causes a reflexive recoil. The ultimate cause is likely related to avoiding predators or harmful environmental changes, as being exposed on the surface increases the risk of being eaten or desiccated.

Answer:

1. The proximate cause is the immediate, mechanistic trigger of a behavior (e.g., physiological or environmental factors). The ultimate cause is the evolutionary reason for the behavior, related to survival and reproductive success.
2. Proximate cause: Physical or light - related stimuli from the flashlight and the person's movement trigger a reflexive recoil. Ultimate cause: To avoid predators or harmful environmental conditions by retreating to the safety of their burrows.