Which of these best illustrates natural selection? * The largest organisms in a species receive the only breeding opportunities. An organism with favorable genetic variations will tend to survive and breed successfully. A population monopolizes all of the resources in its habitat, forcing other species to migrate. A community whose members work together utilizes all existing resources and migratory routes.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: An organism with favorable genetic variations will tend to survive and breed successfully.
Explanation:
Natural selection is a process in biology that results in the survival and reproductive success of organisms that possess traits favorable for their environment. These traits arise through genetic variation, which occurs naturally due to mutations and genetic recombination. Over generations, organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive environmental pressures such as predators, climate conditions, competition for food, and disease. Those that survive are more likely to pass on their genes to offspring, gradually increasing the frequency of those beneficial traits in the population.
This process does not rely on the size or cooperation of a group, nor does it involve monopolizing resources. Rather, it focuses on individual differences that improve the chances of survival and reproduction in a given environment. For example, a rabbit with fur that blends into its surroundings might avoid predators more effectively than one with fur that stands out. Over time, the population will include more rabbits with that camouflaging trait.
In contrast, statements about the largest organisms being the only ones allowed to breed or about communities monopolizing resources do not accurately reflect the mechanism of natural selection. These situations may involve human influence, social hierarchy, or ecological dominance but do not center on inherited genetic traits that improve survival. Natural selection specifically refers to the differential survival and reproduction of individuals due to differences in phenotype, not due to artificial barriers or cooperative strategies.
Hence, the option highlighting the success of organisms with favorable genetic variations best exemplifies the core principle of natural selection.
