Pairs of monogamous pipefish (Corythoichthys haematopterus) perform an elaborate greeting ceremony every morning, even during the nonreproductive season, and then have no further contact the rest of the day. It has been suggested that this "off-season" greeting ritual provides a means of
A) assessing their quality as mates.
B) coordinating their behavior and physiology.
C) determining whether the individual is, in fact, their mate.
D) maintaining their pair bond.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "off-season" greeting ritual among monogamous pipefish is likely a behavior aimed at maintaining their pair bond, ensuring the stability of their relationship even when not actively reproducing.

Pairs of Monogamous Pipefish (Corythoichthys Haematopterus) Perform an Elaborate Greeting