The mutation that causes the fox to have white fur instead of brown can be classified as a beneficial mutation. Here's why:
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Blending in with the Environment: In the arctic, the ground is usually covered in white snow. A fox with white fur can blend in with the snowy background. This makes it harder for predators, like eagles and wolves, to spot it. It’s like wearing a camouflage outfit that helps the fox hide!
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Better Hunting: Because the white fox can hide better, it also has a better chance of sneaking up on its prey, like rodents. This means it can hunt more successfully and find more food.
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Survival Chances: By blending in with its environment, the white-furred fox has a higher chance of surviving. If it can escape predators and find food more easily, it's more likely to live longer and have babies that also have white fur.
So, in conclusion, the white fur mutation helps the arctic fox survive better in its snowy home, making it a beneficial mutation!