UPSC Prelims 2002 Q74: Environment & Ecology – Ecosystems & Ecology Concepts
Which one of the following animals is monogamous?
- (a) Wolf
- (b) Walrus
- (c) Seal
- (d) Deer
Answer: (a) Wolf
Explanation
Which animal is monogamous
| Animal | Mating system |
|---|---|
| Wolf | Monogamous — the alpha pair mates and raises the pups |
| Walrus | Polygynous — a bull holds a harem |
| Seal | Polygynous — the bull keeps a harem of females |
| Deer | Polygynous — stags hold a harem of hinds in the rut |
Wolves are monogamous: the dominant pair of a pack usually mates for life, with the pups raised by the pack. Walruses, seals and deer are polygynous, with one male holding many females.
Answer: (a) Wolf.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Wolves are monogamous.
- (b) Incorrect. Walruses are polygynous.
- (c) Incorrect. Seals are polygynous.
- (d) Incorrect. Deer are polygynous in the rutting season.
Key point
Animal mating systems: monogamy - wolf, swan, gibbon; polygyny - seal, deer, lion; polyandry - rare.
Remember
Wolf = monogamous pair bond.
Common mistakes
- Choosing deer from the family image of a herd.
- Thinking all carnivores are polygynous.
- Mixing seals with sea-lions, which are polygynous as well.
Exam tip
Three of the four form harems; the pack animal is the exception.
Sources
- NCERT Class XII Biology — Organisms and Populations
- Animal behaviour texts — mating systems