How can a mutation affecting skin be harmful to an animal?

Question

(5 Points)

It can make the animal more visible to its prey or predators.

It can cause disease in the animal.

It can make the animal resistant to certain diseases.

It can make the animal resistant to drugs.

Answer 1

A mutation affecting skin can be harmful to an animal in several ways, and the most relevant point from your list is:

1. It can make the animal more visible to its prey or predators.
   Changes in skin pigmentation or texture can alter how well an animal blends into its environment, making it easier for predators to spot it or for prey to escape. Increased visibility can lead to higher predation rates or reduced hunting success.

2. It can cause disease in the animal.
   Mutations may affect the skin's barrier function or its ability to respond to environmental pathogens, potentially resulting in skin diseases or infections that can compromise the animal's health.

The other two points regarding resistance to diseases or drugs are generally considered advantageous rather than harmful mutations. Thus, options 1 and 2 are the most pertinent when discussing harmful mutations affecting skin.