If V=value of the resource, W=cost of being wounded, and D=cost of displaying, then the fact that male elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris and M. leonina) fight brutal and bloody battles for the right to mate
A) supports the prediction of game theory that if VW, a hawk strategy should prevail.
B) means that only a few dominant males can who defend harems of females perform all the matings.
C) fits with the finding that the fights among males are so strenuous that a male can usually be harem master for only a year or two before he dies.
D) all of the above.

Question

If V=value of the resource, W=cost of being wounded, and D=cost of displaying, then the fact that male elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris and M. leonina) fight brutal and bloody battles for the right to mate
A) supports the prediction of game theory that if V>W, a hawk strategy should prevail.
B) means that only a few dominant males can who defend harems of females perform all the matings.
C) fits with the finding that the fights among males are so strenuous that a male can usually be harem master for only a year or two before he dies.
D) all of the above.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All the options provided are correct and relate to the behaviors and outcomes of male elephant seal mating strategies. A) aligns with game theory predictions about aggressive (hawk) strategies when the value of the resource exceeds the cost of conflict. B) reflects the polygynous mating system where a few dominant males secure access to females. C) indicates the high cost of maintaining a harem, leading to a short tenure as harem master.

If V=value of the Resource, W=cost of Being Wounded, and D=cost