What statement accurately describes the relationship between variations and fitness?
a
Variations always increase fitness.
b
Variations can lead to either an increase or decrease in fitness.
c
Fitness always increases variations
d
Fitness can lead to either an increase or decrease in variations.
b. Variations can lead to either an increase or decrease in fitness.
The correct answer is option b: Variations can lead to either an increase or decrease in fitness.
The correct answer is b: Variations can lead to either an increase or decrease in fitness.
To understand why, let's start by defining variations and fitness in the context of biology, specifically in the theory of evolution.
Variations refer to the differences or changes in genetic traits within a population. These variations can arise through mechanisms such as genetic mutations, genetic recombination, and genetic drift. They are the raw material upon which natural selection acts.
Fitness, on the other hand, refers to an individual's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment. In biological terms, it is often defined as reproductive success.
Now, variations can impact an individual's fitness in different ways.
1. Sometimes, variations lead to an increase in fitness: In certain situations, a particular variation may provide an advantage to an individual, allowing them to better adapt to their environment and improve their chances of survival and reproduction. This can increase their fitness and potentially lead to the spread of the advantageous trait within the population through natural selection.
2. Other times, variations can decrease fitness: However, variations can also result in traits that are detrimental to an individual's ability to survive and reproduce. These variations may hinder an individual's chances of survival, reduce their reproductive success, or make them less adapted to their environment. In such cases, these variations are likely to decrease fitness and may not be favored by natural selection.
So, it's important to recognize that variations do not always guarantee an increase in fitness. The impact of a variation on an individual's fitness depends on how well it helps them adapt to their environment and increase their chances of successful reproduction.
In conclusion, the statement that accurately describes the relationship between variations and fitness is b: Variations can lead to either an increase or decrease in fitness, depending on their impact on an individual's survival and reproductive success.