Question

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Genetic Variation Over Time Quick Check
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Question
In an ecosystem, the average temperature increases, causing a shorter winter. There are two varieties of rabbits in this area, white-furred rabbits and brown-furred rabbits. Which scenario is most likely? (1 point)
Responses

The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.
The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.

Both white- and brown-furred rabbits increase.
Both white- and brown-furred rabbits increase.

The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population increases.
The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population increases.

Both white- and brown-furred rabbits decline.
Both white- and brown-furred rabbits decline.
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Answer 1

In this scenario, as the average temperature increases and the winter becomes shorter, the environment may become less suitable for white-furred rabbits, which are typically adapted to snowy conditions where their fur provides camouflage and warmth. Conversely, brown-furred rabbits may have a survival advantage in a warmer ecosystem with less snow cover.

Therefore, the most likely scenario is:

**The proportion of white-furred rabbits in the population declines.**

This is because the white-furred rabbits may struggle to survive and reproduce in the changing environment, leading to a decrease in their population relative to the brown-furred rabbits.