OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What type of behavior is crucial for simple animals to avoid harmful situations?

1. Learned behavior

2. Innate behavior

3. Adaptive behavior

4. Reflexive behavior

The correct answer is: Innate behavior

Innate behavior is crucial for simple animals to avoid harmful situations because it encompasses instinctual responses that are genetically programmed and typically occur without prior experience or learning. These behaviors are often critical for survival, as they enable animals to react quickly to dangers in their environment. For example, simple organisms might have innate responses to stimuli, such as fleeing from predators or moving away from extreme temperatures. This type of behavior is essential, particularly for animals with limited capacity for learning or complex thought processes. Since these organisms often rely on these instinctual reactions, their innate behaviors enhance their chances of survival by allowing them to navigate their surroundings effectively and avoid threats as soon as they are perceived.