As the environment warms due to climate change, we can expect to see a shift in the distribution of sea turtle traits towards more female offspring. Since temperatures above 87° Fahrenheit produce female turtles, the rising sand temperatures will likely result in fewer males being born. This change would not be a genetic adaptation or mutation but rather a direct response to environmental factors affecting their development. Over time, this could lead to a population imbalance, significantly impacting future sea turtle reproduction and survival.
The sex of sea turtle offspring is determined by the temperature of the sand during development. Temperature over 87° Fahrenheit will result in female offspring. Temperatures below 87° Fahrenheit will result in male offspring. Scientists are concerned about the effects of climate change on sea turtle development. One of these effects is the warming of environments.
In 3-4 sentences, describe what change you'd expect to see in the distribution of sea turtle traits over time, if any. Explain whether it would be caused by a genetic adaptation, a mutation, or the environment. Please answer simply, yet coherently, and intended for 9th grade.
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