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Multiple Choice
Which type of natural selection occurs when individuals with average traits are removed, resulting in two populations with extreme traits?
A
Disruptive selection
B
Stabilizing selection
C
Balancing selection
D
Directional selection
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is a process where individuals with traits that provide a survival or reproductive advantage are more likely to pass on their genes to the next generation.
Review the types of natural selection: Stabilizing selection favors average traits, directional selection favors one extreme trait, and disruptive selection favors individuals with extreme traits at both ends of the spectrum while removing those with average traits.
Analyze the question: The problem specifies that individuals with average traits are removed, leading to two populations with extreme traits. This description aligns with the definition of disruptive selection.
Eliminate incorrect options: Stabilizing selection cannot be correct because it favors average traits. Directional selection cannot be correct because it favors one extreme trait, not both. Balancing selection is unrelated to this scenario as it maintains genetic diversity.
Conclude that the correct type of natural selection described in the problem is disruptive selection, as it matches the scenario where average traits are removed, and extreme traits are favored.