What can be said about altruistic behavior among primates?

Altruistic behavior among primates is most prevalent among relatives, and this can be explained through the concept of kin selection. Kin selection is an evolutionary strategy that favors behaviors which help relatives, as this increases the chances of shared genetic material being passed on to future generations. When primates engage in altruistic acts, such as grooming or sharing food, they are often aiding their relatives, which can enhance the survival and reproductive success of family members.

This behavior contributes positively to the overall fitness of the group by ensuring that genes shared between relatives are preserved. In social primate groups, altruism can strengthen social bonds and enhance cooperation, which are critical for survival and reproduction in complex social environments.

The other options don’t reflect the observed dynamics of altruism. Altruistic behavior is indeed not absent in social groups—rather, it is a key feature of many social species. Similarly, solitary species are less likely to exhibit such behaviors, as the lack of social interaction limits opportunities for altruism. Lastly, while altruism can occur among unrelated individuals, it is significantly more likely to occur among those who share genetic ties.