Key Experimental Findings

The experiment involved four groups:

• Naive tadpoles (no prior predator cue exposure), tested alone

• Naive tadpoles, tested with older experienced tadpoles

• Tadpoles with prior predator cue exposure, tested alone

• Tadpoles with prior predator cue exposure, tested with older experienced tadpoles

The escape responses were measured and compared across these groups.

Interpreting the Results

Let’s evaluate the inferences:

A. Prior exposure to predator cues is necessary for the development of escape response.

Incorrect.
While prior exposure enhances the escape response, it is not strictly necessary—tadpoles can still show some response without it, especially when social cues are present.

B. Prior exposure to predator cues positively influences the development of escape response.

Correct.
Tadpoles exposed to predator cues before testing showed a stronger escape response than naive individuals, indicating that learning from prior experience enhances antipredator behavior.

C. The presence of older experienced individuals is necessary for the development of escape response.

Incorrect.
While the presence of experienced conspecifics boosts the escape response, it is not absolutely necessary; individuals can develop responses through their own experience.

D. The presence of older experienced individuals positively influences the development of escape response.

Correct.
Tadpoles tested with older, experienced individuals showed enhanced escape responses, demonstrating the positive influence of social learning and group cues.

E. An individual with prior exposure and with older and experienced individuals showed the strongest escape response.

Supported by the data but not a direct inference option in the question.

Correct Combination

The best-supported inferences from the experiment are:

• B. Prior exposure to predator cues positively influences the development of escape response.

• D. The presence of older experienced individuals positively influences the development of escape response.

Conclusion

Both individual learning through prior predator exposure and social cues from experienced conspecifics independently and additively enhance the development of effective antipredator escape responses in tadpoles. This highlights the importance of both learning mechanisms and social environment in shaping survival strategies.

Correct answer: (2) B and D