The artificial selection experiments with bristle numbers in Drosophila illustrate which generality?
A) In such experiments,it is difficult to obtain individuals with traits that fall outside the range found in the original population.
B) Populations often contain considerable genetic variation upon which selection can operate.
C) Such experiments usually take thousands of generations to achieve their results.
D) Mutations occur to suit the needs of the population.
E) Mutations are random with respect to the adaptive needs of organisms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The artificial selection experiments with bristle numbers in Drosophila demonstrate that populations often contain considerable genetic variation upon which selection can operate, resulting in the evolution of new traits. The experiments did not take thousands of generations, nor did they involve mutations that were specifically suited to the needs of the population. Additionally, while it may be difficult to obtain individuals with extreme traits that fall outside the range of the original population, this is not a central concept illustrated by these experiments. Finally, mutations are generally considered to be random with respect to the adaptive needs of organisms, but this is not a specific concept illustrated by the Drosophila experiments.

The Artificial Selection Experiments with Bristle Numbers in Drosophila Illustrate