Genetic Variation Over Time Quick Check
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Question
In an ecosystem, there are two color varieties within a species of toads: brown and green. Over 50 years, the proportion of the population that is green increases from 20% to 50%. Which statement is the most likely to explain this change? (1 point)
Responses
Pollution caused a decrease in the proportion of brown toads.
Pollution caused a decrease in the proportion of brown toads.
The environment changed such that toads that can jump higher into the trees to survive better.
The environment changed such that toads that can jump higher into the trees to survive better.
A disease caused a decrease in the proportion of brown toads.
A disease caused a decrease in the proportion of brown toads.
The environment changed such that green toads can blend into their surroundings better.
The most likely explanation for the increase in proportion of green toads over time is that the environment changed such that green toads can blend into their surroundings better.
The most likely explanation for the increase in the proportion of green toads in the population is that the environment changed such that green toads can blend into their surroundings better. It's like they are masters of camouflage and decided to go full "green mode!"
The most likely statement to explain the change in the proportion of green toads increasing from 20% to 50% over 50 years is: "The environment changed such that green toads can blend into their surroundings better."
To determine the most likely explanation for the change in the proportion of green toads over the course of 50 years, you need to analyze the given options. The change in color variation suggests that some factor is favoring green toads over brown toads.
Option 1 suggests that pollution caused a decrease in the proportion of brown toads. While pollution could potentially have negative effects on a population, it does not necessarily explain why green toads would increase in proportion. This option does not provide a direct explanation for the increase in green toads and can be ruled out.
Option 2 proposes that the environment changed in a way that toads that can jump higher into the trees survive better. This option suggests that a change in the environment led to the selection of toads with a specific trait (the ability to jump higher). Since this option does not specify a color preference, it does not directly explain why green toads would increase in proportion. Therefore, this option is less likely to be the correct explanation.
Option 3 implies that a disease caused a decrease in the proportion of brown toads. This option suggests that a disease selectively affected brown toads, leading to a decrease in their population. Since green toads were not affected by the disease, their proportion increased over time. This explanation aligns with the observed increase in green toads and is a plausible explanation for the change. This option is a possible correct explanation.
Option 4 suggests that the environment changed in a way that green toads can blend into their surroundings better. This option provides a direct explanation for the increase in green toads. If the environment changed in a way that favored the survival and reproduction of green toads (e.g., by providing better camouflage), then their proportion could increase over time. This option aligns with the observed increase in green toads and is a plausible explanation for the change. This option is also a possible correct explanation.
Considering the explanations provided, options 3 and 4 offer plausible explanations for the increase in the proportion of green toads over 50 years. To determine the most likely explanation, you may need additional information or evidence.