According to optimal foraging theory, which of the following would be associated with a foraging animal that rapidly attains its energetic requirements?
A) Lower opportunity costs
B) Higher risk costs
C) Lower nutritional value of food obtained
D) Higher medicinal value of food obtained
E) Greater access to essential minerals

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Optimal foraging theory predicts that foraging animals will choose prey items that provide the highest net energy gain with the lowest costs. Lower opportunity costs (e.g. less time and energy spent searching for food) would allow the animal to rapidly attain its energetic requirements. Higher risk costs (e.g. exposure to predators or other dangers) would decrease the net energy gain and therefore be avoided. Lower nutritional value of food obtained would also decrease the net energy gain and be avoided. The medicinal value of food and access to essential minerals are not directly related to the energetic requirements of the animal.

According to Optimal Foraging Theory, Which of the Following Would