Question

Atrazine is one of the most widely used herbicides throughout the world. Some studies have shown that the chemical has affected the sexual development of frogs, most notably, leopard frogs (Rana pipiens).




One study suggested that male tadpoles exposed to the herbicide develop into female frogs. These mutated female frogs, according to the study, have the ability to reproduce with other males. However, the mutated frogs can only produce male offspring.

This case demonstrates how
A.
factors in the environment can change the characteristics of organisms.
B.
chemicals introduced to the environment by humans have no effect on the ecosystem.
C.
the activities of organisms can change the environments in which they live.
D.
chemicals introduced to the environment by humans affect only the organisms they were designed to affect.

Answer 1

A. factors in the environment can change the characteristics of organisms.

Explanation: Exposure to the herbicide altered the frogs' sexual development, showing an environmental factor (chemical pollutant) can change biological traits.