Considerably more phenotypic variation exists in domesticated varieties of species like dogs and cabbage than exists in non-domesticated species like lions and maple trees. Which two of the following statements best explains why this is true?

Question

Responses

There is no selection and mating is random under domestication
There is no selection and mating is random under domestication

During domestication, very high rates of mutation are induced
During domestication, very high rates of mutation are induced

Genetic drift is important because domestication involves small populations
Genetic drift is important because domestication involves small populations

Many domesticated varieties would not survive in the natural world

Answer 1

The two statements that best explain the considerable phenotypic variation in domesticated varieties compared to non-domesticated species are:

1. Genetic drift is important because domestication involves small populations – Domesticated species often originate from relatively small population sizes, and genetic drift can lead to increased phenotypic variation as certain traits may become more pronounced or diminished purely by chance.

2. Many domesticated varieties would not survive in the natural world – Domesticated species have been bred for specific traits that are advantageous in human environments but may not be suitable for survival in the wild. This selective breeding can lead to a wider range of phenotypes that are not necessarily advantageous outside of domesticated settings.

Together, these statements highlight how the processes of domestication and the selection pressures involved contribute to the enhanced phenotypic variation seen in domesticated species.