Question

Based on Darwin’s ideas of descent with modification and natural selection, which observation would best support the idea that increased competition causes changes in a species?(1 point)
Responses

A population of frogs develop greener skin after a hurricane blows away the white flowers in the environment
A population of frogs develop greener skin after a hurricane blows away the white flowers in the environment

A population of deer show an increase in antler size over time, which allows them to obtain more mates during mating season
A population of deer show an increase in antler size over time, which allows them to obtain more mates during mating season

A population of rattlesnake goes extinct as the water resources in their environment dry up during an extreme, prolonged drought
A population of rattlesnake goes extinct as the water resources in their environment dry up during an extreme, prolonged drought

A population of artic foxes develop a brown fur color as warmer temperatures reduce the number of days of snowfall in the area
A population of artic foxes develop a brown fur color as warmer temperatures reduce the number of days of snowfall in the area

Answer 1

A population of deer show an increase in antler size over time, which allows them to obtain more mates during mating season.

Explanation: This demonstrates competition (for mates) driving differential reproductive success—males with larger antlers win more mates and pass on those traits, fitting Darwinian natural selection and descent with modification.