Natural selection is a mechanism that drives evolution, which is the gradual change or development of species over time. It is based on the concept that organisms with traits that are better adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to the next generation.
When there is variation within a population, it means that individuals have different traits that may provide advantages or disadvantages in their environment. For example, a population of deer may have variations in fur color, some being lighter and some being darker. In a snowy environment, the lighter-colored deer would be better camouflaged and have a higher chance of avoiding predators, while the darker-colored deer would stand out and be more easily preyed upon.
In this scenario, the lighter-colored deer have a higher survival rate, meaning they are more likely to pass on their genes to the next generation. Over time, the proportion of lighter-colored deer in the population will increase, while the proportion of darker-colored deer will decrease. This shift in the population's traits represents evolution through natural selection.
Natural selection occurs because individuals with advantageous traits have a better chance of surviving, reproducing, and passing on their genes to future generations. As favorable traits accumulate in a population, it leads to changes in the overall characteristics of the species. This process can result in the development of new features or adaptations that enhance an organism's survival and reproductive success in its particular environment.
Explain how natural selection can lead to evolution.
5 answers
Use the drop-down menus to complete the statements.
Each organism in a population produces more offspring than can survive. This is called
.
In order for natural selection to occur, populations must have
.
When the environment changes, nature selects favorable
. Over time, these
in a population.
Each organism in a population produces more offspring than can survive. This is called
.
In order for natural selection to occur, populations must have
.
When the environment changes, nature selects favorable
. Over time, these
in a population.
Each organism in a population produces more offspring than can survive. This is called overproduction.
In order for natural selection to occur, populations must have genetic variation.
When the environment changes, nature selects favorable traits. Over time, these traits become more prevalent in a population.
In order for natural selection to occur, populations must have genetic variation.
When the environment changes, nature selects favorable traits. Over time, these traits become more prevalent in a population.
Which fox would be best suited for a snowy, wintery environment?
The fox that would be best suited for a snowy, wintery environment would be one with a thicker and lighter-colored fur, such as a fox with white or pale gray fur. This fur coloration provides better camouflage against the snowy background, making it harder for predators or prey to spot them. Additionally, the thicker fur helps to insulate and keep the fox warm in the cold temperatures.
12 answers