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Which of the following descriptions best fits the definition of altricial young?

1) Young that are born in an advanced state and are able to feed themselves
2) Young that are born in an undeveloped state and require care and feeding from their parents
3) Young that are born with fully developed physical and behavioral traits
4) Young that are born with a mix of developed and undeveloped traits

User Myron
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1 Answer

6 votes

Final answer:

Altricial young are born in an undeveloped state and rely on their parents for care and feeding. Among species with altricial offspring, parents engage in intensive care, including feeding and protection to ensure survival. The correct description fitting altricial young is that they require care and feeding from their parents.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term “altricial” relates specifically to a state of development in newborns where they are dependent on parental care for survival due to being born in an undeveloped state. In contrast to precocial young, which are born in a more advanced state and capable of independence shortly after birth, altricial young are usually born blind, without feathers or fur, and cannot feed themselves. Examples of altricial species include many birds, such as the hummingbird, where the young require intensive care and feeding from their parents.

According to the descriptions provided, the answer to the question about altricial young would be option 2): Young that are born in an undeveloped state and require care and feeding from their parents. This kind of intensive parental care includes activities such as making a nest, feeding, and protecting the young from predators, which significantly increases the chances of survival for the offspring.

User Lynnyi
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