Multiple Choice
Which of Charles Darwin's main points is illustrated by the concept that individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Natural Selection and Evolution
Multiple Choice
Why do dark-colored rock pocket mice living on dark lava flows typically have white bellies?
A
The genes controlling belly color are completely independent from those controlling dorsal color, so they cannot evolve together.
B
Predators are more likely to attack mice with dark bellies, so white bellies are selected for.
C
White bellies help the mice absorb more heat from the sun in their environment.
D
Natural selection favors dark dorsal fur for camouflage, but there is little selective pressure on belly color since it is less visible to predators.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is the process by which traits that increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction become more common in a population over time.
Identify the selective pressure in this scenario: Dark-colored rock pocket mice living on dark lava flows are subject to predation. Predators are more likely to spot mice with light dorsal fur, so dark dorsal fur provides camouflage and is favored by natural selection.
Recognize the independence of traits: The genes controlling belly color are independent from those controlling dorsal color. This means that changes in one trait do not necessarily affect the other.
Analyze the visibility of belly color: The belly of the mouse is less visible to predators because it is typically against the ground or hidden from view. As a result, there is little selective pressure on belly color.
Conclude why white bellies persist: Since belly color does not significantly affect survival or reproduction, it is not strongly influenced by natural selection. This explains why white bellies are common even in dark-colored rock pocket mice living on dark lava flows.
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