Question

In 1993, there were only 30 panthers in Florida. They were all closely related and many had reproductive problems. To avoid extinction and restore health to the population, biologists introduced 8 female panthers from Texas. Today, there are more than 80 panthers in Florida and most individuals have healthy reproductive systems. Why was this tactic successful? (1 point) Responses The introduced females solved the reproductive problems of the species by asexual methods. The introduced females solved the reproductive problems of the species by asexual methods. The introduced females mated only with panthers from Texas. The introduced females mated only with panthers from Texas. The introduced females increased the genetic variability of the panther population in Florida. The introduced females increased the genetic variability of the panther population in Florida. The introduced females produced more reproductive cells than the male panthers in Texas.

Answer 1

The correct response is: **The introduced females increased the genetic variability of the panther population in Florida.**

This tactic was successful because introducing new individuals from a different population increased the genetic diversity within the Florida panther population, which helped alleviate the negative effects of inbreeding, such as reproductive problems and reduced overall health.