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Multiple Choice
The great diversity of cichlids in Lake Victoria may be attributed to which of the following processes?
A
Adaptive radiation resulting from ecological opportunities and niche differentiation
B
Genetic drift in a large, stable population
C
Stabilizing selection maintaining a single phenotype
D
Artificial selection by local fishermen
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of adaptive radiation: Adaptive radiation refers to the rapid evolution of multiple species from a common ancestor, often driven by ecological opportunities and niche differentiation. This process allows species to exploit different resources or habitats, leading to increased diversity.
Evaluate the role of ecological opportunities: In Lake Victoria, the availability of diverse ecological niches (such as different feeding strategies, habitats, or reproductive behaviors) likely provided opportunities for cichlids to adapt and specialize, promoting speciation.
Consider genetic drift: Genetic drift is a random process that affects allele frequencies in small populations. However, in large, stable populations, genetic drift is less impactful and unlikely to explain the diversity of cichlids in Lake Victoria.
Analyze stabilizing selection: Stabilizing selection favors intermediate phenotypes and reduces variation within a population. This process would maintain a single phenotype rather than promote the diversity observed in cichlids.
Examine artificial selection: Artificial selection involves human intervention in breeding to favor specific traits. While fishermen may influence cichlid populations, this process does not explain the natural diversity resulting from ecological and evolutionary mechanisms like adaptive radiation.