The Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) population had declined to approximately 20-30 individuals as a result of habitat loss and hunting. Many of the panthers had genetic mutations due to inbreeding that affected their ability to reproduce and survive. Female Texas pumas (Puma concolor stanleyana) were introduced into Florida to mate with the endangered population of panthers. Hybrid panthers had more genetic variation and reproductive success than the Florida panthers.

Question

The Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) population had declined to approximately 20-30 individuals as a result of habitat loss and hunting. Many of the panthers had genetic mutations due to inbreeding that affected their ability to reproduce and survive. Female Texas pumas (Puma concolor stanleyana) were introduced into Florida to mate with the endangered population of panthers. Hybrid panthers had more genetic variation and reproductive success than the Florida panthers.

Which event is demonstrating a mechanism of evolution?

A. Hunting

B. Habitat loss

C. Texas puma introduction

Which mechanism of evolution is being demonstrated?

A. Gene flow

B. Genetic drift

C. Natural selection

What will be the affect on the gene pool of the Florida panther population?

A. Increased genetic diversity

B. Decreased genetic diversity

C. No effect on diversity

Answer 1

C. Texas puma introduction

C. Natural selection

A. Increased genetic diversity