A species of bird has slight variations in its beak size and shape. Some individuals with bigger beaks are better at cracking seeds. Some individuals with narrower beaks are better at hunting for bugs An invasive species is introduced that hunts all of the bug population, wiping out that food source for the birds, so all they are left with is seeds. In one to two sentences, explain how genetic variation from sexual reproduction can save this species from extinction.

Question

A species of bird has slight variations in its beak size and shape. Some individuals with bigger beaks are better at cracking seeds. Some individuals with narrower beaks are better at hunting for bugs  An invasive species is introduced that hunts all of the bug population, wiping out that food source for the birds, so all they are left with is seeds.  In one to two sentences, explain how genetic variation from sexual reproduction can save this species from extinction.

GPT-4o mini · Answer

Genetic variation from sexual reproduction allows for a diverse gene pool, enabling some individuals within the bird species to possess traits better suited for seed-cracking as they adapt to the loss of their bug food source. This adaptability increases the likelihood of survival and reproduction in the face of environmental changes, ultimately helping the species withstand the threat of extinction.