Give an example of how natural selection could benefit a species. Justify your response in two or more complete sentences in the essay box below.

One example of natural selection benefiting a species is the evolution of giraffes. As their habitat changed and food became scarce, the giraffes with longer necks were able to reach higher branches, giving them an advantage in survival and reproduction. Over time, the giraffes with longer necks were naturally selected for and passed on their genes to their offspring, resulting in the species we see today.

One example of how natural selection could benefit a species is the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. When bacteria are exposed to antibiotics, it creates a selective pressure where only those bacteria that have acquired a resistance mechanism survive and reproduce. Over time, this leads to the population becoming predominantly resistant to the antibiotic, ensuring their survival and allowing them to outcompete other bacteria. This is beneficial for the species as it enables them to adapt and survive in the presence of antibiotics, which are commonly used in medical treatments.