The image below illustrates an example of natural selection. Suppose there was limited genetic diversity in the mouse population, producing only light colored mice. How would the mice population be affected? Explain your answer. Please answer in 2-4 sentences.
Grading Considerations:
• Answer must refer to the predator/prey in the image
• Answer must explain a possible outcome of the population if only light colored mice existed
• Answer must have an explanation for your outcome
• Your answer should be 2-4 sentences in length. In an effort to combat plagiarism, answers longer than 5 sentences will not be considered. Answering concisely and to the point is evidence of your understanding of the topic.
1 answer
If the mouse population consisted only of light-colored mice, they would be easily seen and targeted by predators like the owl in the image. This would result in a higher predation rate for the light-colored mice, potentially leading to a decrease in their population size. Over time, the population may evolve to include darker-colored mice that are better camouflaged, increasing their chances of survival against predators.