A bottleneck event reduces the population of bears in one area by 80%. Which statement is correct about the bears’ gene pool? (1 point)

Question

Responses

It has temporarily increased, so disadvantageous traits are more likely to be passed on.

It has temporarily decreased, so disadvantageous traits are less likely to be passed on.

It has temporarily increased, so disadvantageous traits are less likely to be passed on.

It has temporarily decreased, so disadvantageous traits are more likely to be passed on.

Answer 1

The correct statement is:

It has temporarily decreased, so disadvantageous traits are more likely to be passed on.

A bottleneck event significantly reduces the population size, which can lead to a decrease in genetic diversity. With fewer individuals reproducing, there is a higher chance that certain traits (including disadvantageous ones) may become more prevalent in the gene pool if they happen to be present in the surviving population.