Fixed-action patterns are so strongly "encoded" in the nervous system that an animal may sometimes engage in instinctive behaviors when faced with inappropriate stimuli.

Question

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Fixed-action patterns are highly stereotyped, instinctive behaviors that, once initiated, are typically carried out to completion even if the original stimulus is removed or if an inappropriate stimulus is presented. This indicates that these behaviors are strongly encoded in the animal's nervous system.

Fixed-Action Patterns Are So Strongly "Encoded" in the Nervous System