Question

Bobcats are wild cats that live in many different habitats. They are carnivores that hunt for small mammals. Most bobcats have brown fur that allows them to blend into their environment, which allows bobcats to sneak up on their prey. Bobcats can also develop albino pigmentation. Similar to house cats, this mutation will give bobcats white fur. The picture shows an albino bobcat in its natural environment.



The bobcat has light, spotted fur and pink eyes.

Which statement best describes the albino mutation in the bobcat?


It is a neutral mutation because it will decrease the bobcat's survival.


It is a neutral mutation because it does not affect the bobcat's survival.


It is a harmful mutation because it will decrease the bobcat's ability to find prey.


It is a beneficial mutation because it will increase the bobcat's ability to find prey.

Answer 1

It is a harmful mutation because it will decrease the bobcat's ability to find prey.

Explanation: albino coloration removes the normal brown camouflage, making the bobcat more visible to prey (and predators), which reduces hunting success and survival.