USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) Practice Exam

What advantage does group hunting provide in terms of food resource acquisition?

1. Increased competition among hunters

2. Ability to hunt smaller prey more efficiently

3. Decrease in hunting time

4. Increased chance of capturing larger prey

The correct answer is: Increased chance of capturing larger prey

Group hunting provides several advantages that enhance the likelihood of capturing larger prey, primarily through cooperative strategies employed by the members of the group. When animals hunt in groups, they can coordinate their efforts to surround, chase, or ambush prey more effectively than a lone hunter could. This collective strategy allows them to tackle larger or more formidable prey that would typically be too difficult or dangerous for a single individual to handle, thus expanding their dietary options. Moreover, group hunting can also disrupt the prey's escape routes and divide its attention, further increasing the chances of a successful hunt. The social dynamics and teamwork involved in group hunting also allow for the sharing of resources once the prey is captured, effectively optimizing the energy expenditure relative to the caloric gain from larger prey. While there are benefits to hunting smaller prey or reducing competition, the primary advantage of group hunting lies in the enhanced capability to secure larger and potentially more nutritious food sources that single individuals would not be able to hunt effectively on their own.