Question A species of bird has slight variations in its beak size and shape. Some individuals with bigger beaks are better at cracking seeds. Some individuals with narrower beaks are better at hunting for bugs. An invasive species is introduced that hunts all of the bug population, wiping out that food source for the birds, so all they are left with is seeds. In one to two sentences, explain how genetic variation from sexual reproduction can save this species from extinction.
1 answer
Genetic variation from sexual reproduction can provide the bird population with individuals who have different beak sizes and shapes, allowing some to be better adapted to cracking seeds and surviving when bugs are scarce. This diversity in traits increases the chances of some individuals being able to thrive and reproduce in the new food environment, ultimately saving the species from extinction.