The notion that the parents have some insurance in case some of the eggs or offspring fail to develop is one proposed possible explanation for why a parent may
A) be especially responsive to young.
B) encourage siblicide.
C) need help with later broods.
D) produce more young than it can raise successfully.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The concept described is essentially an evolutionary strategy known as "bet-hedging," where producing more offspring than can be successfully raised ensures that even if some fail to survive or develop, enough will make it to adulthood to continue the species. This strategy accounts for unpredictable environmental conditions or other factors that might affect offspring survival.

The Notion That the Parents Have Some Insurance in Case