Which of the reflexes is not inherited: performing the command lie down by the dog; coughing? - briefly
Reflexes are automatic responses to stimuli that are typically inherited and do not require conscious thought. Coughing is a reflex that is inherited and serves to clear the airways of irritants. On the other hand, performing the command "lie down" by a dog is a learned behavior that results from training and is not an inherited reflex. The dog must be taught this command through conditioning and repetition, unlike coughing, which is an instinctive response.
The answer to the question is that performing the command "lie down" by the dog is not inherited. Coughing is an inherited reflex.
Which of the reflexes is not inherited: performing the command lie down by the dog; coughing? - in detail
Reflexes are automatic, involuntary responses to specific stimuli. They are typically inherited and hardwired into the nervous system. However, not all behaviors that appear reflexive are truly innate. To determine whether a behavior is inherited, it is essential to examine its origins and the mechanisms behind it.
Coughing is a classic example of an inherited reflex. It is a protective mechanism designed to clear the airways of irritants, mucus, or foreign particles. The cough reflex is mediated by the brainstem and involves a complex interplay of sensory receptors, neural pathways, and motor responses. This reflex is present from birth and does not require learning or training. It is a fundamental aspect of the body's defense system, ensuring that the respiratory tract remains clear and functional. The neural circuitry underlying the cough reflex is established during fetal development and is fully operational at birth. This inherent nature of coughing makes it a true reflex that is inherited.
On the other hand, performing the command "lie down" by a dog is not an inherited reflex but a learned behavior. This behavior is acquired through training and reinforcement. Dogs are not born knowing how to respond to the command "lie down." Instead, they learn this behavior through a process of conditioning, where they associate the command with a specific action and a reward. The neural pathways involved in this behavior are not hardwired but are formed through experience and learning. The dog's ability to perform the command "lie down" relies on its cognitive processes, memory, and the ability to associate the command with the desired action. This learned behavior is a result of training and is not an innate reflex.
In summary, coughing is an inherited reflex that is essential for the body's protective mechanisms and is present from birth. Performing the command "lie down" by a dog is a learned behavior that is acquired through training and does not involve inherited neural pathways. Understanding the distinction between inherited reflexes and learned behaviors is crucial for appreciating the complexity of animal behavior and the mechanisms underlying their responses to stimuli.