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Multiple Choice
Which type of natural selection removes individuals with average traits, favoring those at both extremes of the phenotypic range?
A
Balancing selection
B
Directional selection
C
Stabilizing selection
D
Disruptive selection
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is a process where individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. Different types of natural selection affect populations in distinct ways.
Define the types of natural selection: Balancing selection maintains genetic diversity, directional selection favors one extreme phenotype, stabilizing selection favors average traits, and disruptive selection favors individuals at both extremes of the phenotypic range.
Focus on the question: The problem asks which type of natural selection removes individuals with average traits and favors those at both extremes of the phenotypic range.
Match the description to the correct type: Disruptive selection is the type of natural selection that fits this description, as it reduces the frequency of individuals with average traits and increases the frequency of individuals with extreme traits.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the definitions and the description provided, the correct answer is disruptive selection, as it aligns with the characteristics outlined in the question.