Fixed action pattern
Instinctive animal behavior / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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"Fixed action pattern" is an ethological term describing an instinctive behavioral sequence that is highly stereotyped and species-characteristic.[1] Fixed action patterns are said to be produced by the innate releasing mechanism, a "hard-wired" neural network, in response to a sign/key stimulus or releaser.[1][2] Once released, a fixed action pattern runs to completion.[1]
This term is often associated with Konrad Lorenz, who is the founder of the concept.[1] Lorenz identified six characteristics of fixed action patterns.[3] These characteristics state that fixed action patterns are stereotyped, complex, species-characteristic, released, triggered, and independent of experience.[3]
Fixed action patterns have been observed in many species, but most notably in fish and birds.[1][2] Classic studies by Konrad Lorenz and Niko Tinbergen involve male stickleback mating behavior and greylag goose egg-retrieval behavior.[4][5]
Fixed action patterns have been shown to be evolutionarily advantageous, as they increase both fitness and speed.[6] However, as a result of their predictability, they may also be used as a means of exploitation. An example of this exploitation would be brood parasitism.[7]
There are four exceptions to fixed action pattern rules:[8] reduced response threshold, vacuum activity, displacement behavior, and graded response.[8]