Question

Why do we see a change in human skin pigment in populations that are farther away from the equator?(1 point)

Diseases common to the polar regions caused a decrease in melanin production.

Predators only common to the polar regions meant darker humans were better camouflaged and had higher fitness.

Humans exposed to less UV light required less melanin to make more vitamin D for healthier bones.

Foods available as you move farther from the equator caused people to produce more melanin.

Answer 1

Humans exposed to less UV light required less melanin to make more vitamin D for healthier bones. Melanin blocks UV, so lighter skin in higher latitudes helps produce enough vitamin D in low-UV environments.