Multiple Choice
Imagine all the grasshoppers are removed and excluded from an ecosystem. Which of the following is the most likely immediate effect on the food web?
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1. Introduction to Biology
Natural Selection and Evolution
Multiple Choice
Which of the following increases species diversity?
A
Inbreeding within a population
B
Genetic drift in small populations
C
Natural selection acting on genetic variation
D
A severe population bottleneck
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of species diversity: Species diversity refers to the variety and abundance of different species within a given ecosystem or population. Factors that increase genetic variation within a population tend to promote species diversity.
Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each option to determine its impact on genetic variation and species diversity. For example, inbreeding within a population reduces genetic variation, while genetic drift in small populations can lead to random loss of alleles, decreasing diversity.
Focus on natural selection: Natural selection acts on genetic variation within a population, favoring traits that improve survival and reproduction. This process can lead to adaptations and increased diversity over time.
Consider the impact of a population bottleneck: A severe population bottleneck drastically reduces population size and genetic variation, which typically decreases species diversity rather than increasing it.
Conclude that natural selection acting on genetic variation is the correct answer: Natural selection promotes genetic diversity by favoring advantageous traits, which can lead to increased species diversity in the long term.
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