Problem 6 - Campbell Biology

Question

Application/Analysis Which of the following is not required for a behavioral trait to evolve by natural selection? (A) In each individual, the form of the behavior is determined entirely by genes. (B) The behavior varies among individuals. (C) An individual's reproductive success depends in part on how the behavior is performed. (D) Some component of the behavior is genetically inherited.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

(A) The form of the behavior is determined entirely by genes.

Step 1: Understanding Natural Selection

Natural selection requires that a trait varies among individuals, affects reproductive success, and is heritable.

Step 2: Identifying the Options

Assess each option to determine if it fits the requirements for natural selection: (A) behavior determined by genes, (B) behavior varies, (C) reproductive success, (D) behavior is inherited.

Step 3: Evaluate Each Option

(A) Behavior determined entirely by genes: This is too restrictive, as natural selection works with both genetic and environmental influences. (B) Behavior varies: Required for selection to act on differences. (C) Reproductive success depends on behavior: Necessary for the trait to affect fitness. (D) Behavior is inherited: Required for the trait to be passed to offspring.

Step 4: Conclusiom

Determine which option does not align with the principles of natural selection.

Key Concepts

behavioral traits

Behavioral traits refer to the way an organism behaves in response to its environment or to other organisms. These traits can include actions like foraging, mating rituals, or social interactions. They are influenced by both genetic factors and environmental conditions. This variation in behavior among individuals is crucial for the process of natural selection because it allows for differential success in survival and reproduction. By observing and studying these traits, scientists can understand how certain behaviors contribute to the fitness and adaptability of a species over generations.

genetic inheritance

Genetic inheritance is the process by which genetic information is passed from parents to offspring. This genetic material, encoded in DNA, dictates various traits, including physical characteristics and some aspects of behavior. For a trait to evolve through natural selection, it must have a heritable component, meaning it can be inherited from one generation to the next. This allows advantageous traits to accumulate over time. If a certain behavior that increases reproductive success is inherited, it will become more common in the population.

reproductive success

Reproductive success is a measure of how well an individual is able to produce offspring that survive and reproduce themselves. It is a crucial aspect of natural selection because traits that enhance reproductive success are more likely to be passed on and spread through the population. Behaviors that increase chances of mating, successful raising of young, or surviving long enough to reproduce directly contribute to an individual's reproductive success. This concept is central to understanding how certain traits become more prevalent in a population over time.

evolutionary biology

Evolutionary biology is the study of how organisms evolve and adapt over time through processes like natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow. It looks at both the microevolutionary level (changes within a population) and the macroevolutionary level (how new species form). Behavioral traits, genetic inheritance, and reproductive success are all crucial components of evolutionary biology. By studying these elements, scientists can trace the lineage of species, understand their adaptations, and predict how they might evolve in response to future environmental changes.