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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements best explains the impact of deforestation on reptile species in the context of natural selection and evolution?
A
Deforestation has no direct impact on reptile species because they can adapt instantly to any environment.
B
Deforestation increases reptile populations by providing more open space for basking.
C
Deforestation can reduce suitable habitats for reptiles, leading to population declines and influencing evolutionary pressures.
D
Deforestation only affects plant species and has no effect on animal populations.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the problem: The question is asking about the impact of deforestation on reptile species, specifically in the context of natural selection and evolution. This requires knowledge of how environmental changes influence species survival and adaptation.
Clarify the concept of deforestation: Deforestation refers to the removal of forests, which leads to habitat loss for many species, including reptiles. This can disrupt ecosystems and reduce the availability of resources such as food, shelter, and breeding sites.
Relate deforestation to natural selection: Natural selection is the process by which individuals with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce. When deforestation reduces suitable habitats, reptiles with traits that allow them to survive in altered environments may have a selective advantage, while others may face population declines.
Evaluate the provided statements: Analyze each statement in the context of the above concepts. For example, the claim that reptiles can adapt instantly is incorrect because adaptation occurs over generations through evolutionary processes, not instantaneously. Similarly, the idea that deforestation only affects plants is incorrect because habitat loss impacts entire ecosystems, including animals.
Identify the correct statement: The correct explanation is that deforestation reduces suitable habitats for reptiles, leading to population declines and influencing evolutionary pressures. This aligns with the principles of natural selection and the broader impact of environmental changes on species.