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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an example of stabilizing selection?
A
Peppered moth coloration, where dark and light moths are favored in different environments
B
Sickle cell trait, where heterozygous individuals have a survival advantage in malaria-endemic areas
C
Human birth weight, where very low and very high weights have higher mortality rates
D
Darwin's finches, where different beak sizes are favored in different environments
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of stabilizing selection: Stabilizing selection is a type of natural selection that favors the average individuals in a population. It reduces variation and maintains the status quo by selecting against extreme phenotypes.
Analyze the examples given: Each example represents a different type of selection. Identify which one aligns with the definition of stabilizing selection.
Peppered moth coloration: This is an example of disruptive selection, where two extreme phenotypes are favored in different environments, not stabilizing selection.
Sickle cell trait: This is an example of balancing selection, where heterozygous individuals have a survival advantage, maintaining genetic diversity.
Human birth weight: This is an example of stabilizing selection, as very low and very high birth weights have higher mortality rates, favoring the average birth weight.