Which of the following situations is an example of artificial selection?
Choose 1 answer:
A species of mouse develops lighter fur, reducing the likeliness
that it will be seen by predators.
A species of anteaters develops narrower snouts, making it easier
to reach ants in their anthills.
A farmer breeds cows, developing larger, more muscled calves.
A species of spider develops the ability to produce thousands
eggs, ensuring that some of its offspring will survive.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
A farmer breeds cows, developing larger, more muscled calves.
Explanation:
Artificial selection, also known as selective breeding, is a process where humans actively choose which individuals of a species will reproduce based on desirable traits. This practice contrasts with natural selection, where environmental pressures dictate which individuals survive and reproduce based on their fitness.
In the example provided, the farmer deliberately selects cows that exhibit traits such as larger size and more muscle mass. By breeding these selected cows, the farmer influences the genetic makeup of the next generation, leading to calves that inherit these desirable traits. This method has been widely used in agriculture to enhance livestock for specific purposes, such as meat production, milk yield, or disease resistance.
The other options illustrate processes that do not involve human intervention or selection:
- A species of mouse develops lighter fur, reducing the likeliness that it will be seen by predators: This describes natural selection, where the mouse’s fur color helps it survive and reproduce in its environment due to predation pressures.
- A species of anteaters develops narrower snouts, making it easier to reach ants in their anthills: This is also an example of natural selection, as anteaters with narrower snouts are better adapted to their food source, allowing them to thrive in their habitat.
- A species of spider develops the ability to produce thousands of eggs, ensuring that some of its offspring will survive: This describes a reproductive strategy that may enhance survival but does not involve human selection.
In conclusion, artificial selection is characterized by human involvement in breeding practices to enhance specific traits, as exemplified by the farmer breeding cows for larger, more muscled calves.