Question

The image below illustrates an example of natural selection. Suppose there was limited genetic diversity in the prey population (organisms at bottom of image), producing only light colored prey. How would the prey population be affected? Explain your answer. Please answer in 2-4 sentences.

there are 3 images. image 1 shows six mice(?) underground. Three are white and the other three are dark. image 2 shows a bird grabbing a white mouse from out of the ground. image 3 shows only one white mouse left over but all three dark mice are still alive

Answer must refer to the predator/prey in the image
Answer must explain a possible outcome of the population if only light colored prey existed
Answer must have an explanation for your outcome

Answer 1

If the prey population consisted solely of light-colored mice, they would be highly vulnerable to predation, especially in environments where the soil is darker or more mixed in color. As a result, the lack of genetic diversity would likely lead to a significant decline in the prey population, as the light-colored mice would be easily spotted and captured by the predators. Over time, this could result in the extinction of the prey population, as they would not be able to adapt or develop any traits that might provide better camouflage or survival against predation.