Question 7

If behavior in lovebirds is genetic, then a hybrid offspring will display a mixture of behaviors.

Dilger was investigating the genetic basis of nesting behaviors in lovebirds, specifically how these behaviors manifest in hybrid offspring. His hypothesis suggested that if the behaviors are genetic, the hybrid offspring would show a combination of the nesting behaviors of its parent species.

A) If hybrid offspring have a mixture of behaviors, then the species are within the same genus.

This option is incorrect because it does not directly address the genetic basis of nesting behaviors that Dilger was testing. The relationship of species within the same genus does not inherently imply that hybrid offspring will exhibit a mixture of behaviors; thus, it does not align with Dilger's findings.

B) If a hybrid offspring carries nesting material in its beak, then it is more closely related to modern lovebirds.

This statement is also incorrect. While it mentions the behavior of carrying nesting material, it incorrectly implies a direct relationship to modern lovebirds based on this behavior alone. Dilger's hypothesis focused on the genetic aspect of behaviors rather than solely on physical nesting methods.

C) If behavior in lovebirds is genetic, then a hybrid offspring will display a mixture of behaviors.

This option is correct as it aligns perfectly with Dilger's hypothesis that nesting behaviors are inherited. The hybrid offspring, exhibiting a blend of behaviors from both parent species, supports the idea that these behaviors are genetically determined.

D) If lovebird species can interbreed, then a hybrid offspring will have a mixture of behaviors.

While this statement is partially true, it is misleading. The ability to interbreed does not necessarily imply that behaviors will mix unless there is a genetic basis for these behaviors, which is what Dilger was confirming in his research. Therefore, it does not capture the essence of Dilger's hypothesis.

Conclusion

The correct answer, option C, is definitively right as it directly reflects Dilger's investigation into the genetic nature of nesting behaviors in lovebirds. Other options either misinterpret the genetic implications or focus on unrelated aspects, failing to capture the core hypothesis being tested. Thus, option C is the only one that accurately summarizes Dilger's findings regarding hybrid offspring and their behaviors.