maternalistic

Maternalistic describes a behavior pattern, particularly in the animal kingdom, where an individual displays care and protection towards unrelated younger individuals, akin to a mother's behavior. This altruistic act often involves providing food, shelter, or defense against predators. While the term itself suggests a maternal connection, it extends to individuals that are not the biological parents. This behavior can be observed in various species, including mammals, birds, and insects.

The evolutionary advantage of maternalistic behavior is often linked to kin selection or reciprocal altruism, although direct benefits to the caregiver can also play a role. In some cases, the younger individuals being cared for may be related to the caregiver's kin, even if not direct offspring, thereby indirectly promoting the caregiver's genes. In other instances, the caregiver might receive future benefits, such as protection or assistance, from the individual they helped raise. There are also hypotheses suggesting that maternalistic behaviors can arise from misdirected parental instincts or as a learning opportunity for the caregiver.

Examples include meerkats that babysit pups and defend them, or cleaner fish that remove parasites from larger fish, including those that might prey on them. The underlying motivations and mechanisms can vary significantly between species, making it a complex area of study in behavioral ecology.