Q10TYU - Campbell Biology

Question

Based on the results of the mouse coloration study, suggest another hypothesis researchers might use to study further the role of predators in the natural selection process.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The hypothesis can be “Longer legs would allow mice to run faster and escape the predator’s grasp, increasing their chances of survival and so being chosen”.

Definition of hypothesis

A hypothesis is a proposed assumption based on some findings that are used as a starting point for further research. It is based on evidence that can be used as a starting point for further investigation

Research hypothesis

Researchers utilize hypotheses to write down their ideas on how the experiment should be conducted. Thus, formulating a hypothesis is the first step in any investigation, where the research questions are translated into a prediction. 

Variables, population, and the relationship between the variables are all included. A research hypothesis is a hypothesis that is tested to see if two or more variables have a relationship.

Explanation for the proposed hypothesis

According to the coat color study findings, mice that blend in better with their surroundings are less likely to be spotted by predators. Predators had thus pushed natural selection to produce two distinct subspecies of mice with different colors, even though they were both classified as members of the same species.

On similar grounds, mice with longer legs could run faster than mice with shorter legs. Longer-legged mice escaped predation better than shorter-legged mice. Therefore this was a benefit. This trait benefitted the mice with longer legs, increasing their chances of survival. 

Thus, the hypothesis is based on the observation that predators must have pushed natural selection to favor mice with longer legs as they could escape predation better.