A species of bird has slight variations in its beak size and shape. Some individuals with bigger beaks are better at cracking seeds. Some individuals with narrower beaks are better at hunting for bugs. An invasive species is introduced that hunts all of the bug population, wiping out that food source for the birds, so all they are left with is seeds.

Question

In one to two sentences, explain how genetic variation from sexual reproduction can save this species from extinction.

(2 points)

Answer 1

Sexual reproduction allows for the mixing of genetic traits, so some individuals may have a combination of traits that make them better suited for cracking seeds, thus increasing the likelihood of survival for the species. Additionally, the variation in beak size and shape provides a diverse enough gene pool that some individuals may adapt to find new sources of food or evolve new feeding strategies.