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

O a large mammal species with a low reproduction rate and specific food needs.
• 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
• a bird species with specific nesting requirements that only feeds on one type of seed.

Answer 1

The species most likely to adapt and evolve to the changes in the environment due to the volcanic eruption is the insect species with a high reproduction rate and a significant mutation rate.

Here’s why:

1. High Reproduction Rate: A species that reproduces quickly can generate more offspring in a shorter amount of time, which increases the chance of some individuals having advantageous traits that may help them survive in the new conditions.

2. Significant Mutation Rate: A higher mutation rate can lead to greater genetic variability within the population. This variability provides a broader pool of traits for natural selection to act upon, increasing the likelihood of developing adaptations to new environmental stresses like lower temperatures and reduced sunlight.

In contrast, the other species mentioned are less likely to adapt due to their lower reproduction rates, specific food needs or nesting requirements, or lack of genetic diversity.