Male tree lizards (Urosaurus ornatus) of the nonaggressive phenotype are flexible in their territorial behavior, switching between territorial and nomadic behavior in response to environmental conditions. When conditions become stressful, levels of the hormone corticosterone rise, eventually triggering the switch to nomadic behavior.
A) This switch in behavior is prompted by hormone changes that occur during the neonatal period and are, therefore, activational in nature.
B) This switch in behavior is prompted by hormone changes that occur during the neonatal period and are, therefore, organizational in nature.
C) This switch in behavior is prompted by hormone changes that occur in adulthood and are, therefore, activational in nature.
D) This switch in behavior is prompted by hormone changes that occur in adulthood and are, therefore, organizational in nature.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The switch to nomadic behavior in male tree lizards is triggered by changes in corticosterone levels in response to environmental stress in adulthood, indicating an activational effect of hormones, not an organizational effect which typically refers to permanent changes caused by hormones during early development.

Male Tree Lizards (Urosaurus Ornatus) of the Nonaggressive Phenotype Are