Imagine a major volcanic eruption has dramatically changed the environment on an island such that the average temperature and available sunlight are much lower. Of the following species present on that island, which species is most likely to adapt and evolve to this change instead of going extinct?(1 point)

Question

Responses

a large mammal species with a low reproduction rate and specific food needs.
a large mammal species with a low reproduction rate and specific food needs.

a bird species with specific nesting requirements that only feeds on one type of seed.
a bird species with specific nesting requirements that only feeds on one type of seed.

a reptile species with a high reproduction rate and very similar individuals.
a reptile species with a high reproduction rate and very similar individuals.

an insect species with a high reproduction rates and a significant mutation rate

Answer 1

The species most likely to adapt and evolve to the changed environment on the island, given the described conditions, would be the insect species with high reproduction rates and a significant mutation rate.

High reproductive rates allow for a larger number of offspring, increasing the likelihood of some individuals possessing traits that may be advantageous in the new conditions. Additionally, a significant mutation rate can introduce genetic diversity, which can lead to the emergence of beneficial traits that help the species adapt to lower temperatures and reduced sunlight.

In contrast, the other species (large mammals and birds) have low reproduction rates and specific needs, making them less adaptable to rapid environmental changes.