Here are the answers to each of the questions based on the scenarios provided:
-
Which of the following scenarios will decrease the genetic variation of a population?
- Response: a population of birds suddenly decrease their frequency of sexual reproduction.
- Explanation: Decreased sexual reproduction leads to fewer combinations of alleles in the offspring, which reduces genetic variation.
-
Two of the main drivers of genetic variation are mutations and genetic recombination. During which process can these two events occur?
- Response: meiosis.
- Explanation: Meiosis is the process that produces gametes and includes both mutation and genetic recombination (crossing over).
-
If a fish is able to breathe outside of water but does not reproduce, that trait:
- Response: does not impact evolution.
- Explanation: A trait that does not get passed on to the next generation (due to lack of reproduction) will not contribute to evolution.
-
In which of the following scenarios would evolution by natural selection take place?
- Response: Penguins reproduce sexually, producing offspring that look different from one another.
- Explanation: This variation among offspring can lead to differential survival and reproduction, which is a key component of natural selection.
-
Which type of environment would tend to reduce genetic variation in a population because of evolution by natural selection?
- Response: grasslands that are undergoing severe drought.
- Explanation: A harsh environment like a severe drought may quickly eliminate individuals that are less adapted, leading to a homogenization of traits and a reduction in genetic variation.
Feel free to ask if you have any further questions or need clarifications!