Suppose a small number of geese are born with a genetic mutation that makes them spend more time caring for their eggs. As a result, more chicks hatch from these eggs that then survive to reproduce themselves. According to the principle of natural selection, which of the following would be the likely result?
A) Other genetic mutations would start occurring at a faster rate.
B) The genetically inherited behavior would become more common after many generations.
C) The genetically inherited behavior would become less common after many generations.
D) The rate of genetic mutations would slow drastically.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The increased survival of offspring due to the genetic mutation of increased egg care would lead to a higher frequency of this behavior in the population over many generations. This is because individuals with this trait are more likely to survive and pass on their genes, leading to an increase in the prevalence of this behavior in the population over time. Other genetic mutations may still occur, but it is not clear that they would occur at a faster rate or have any significant impact on the prevalence of this particular behavior. The rate of genetic mutations is not directly related to the principle of natural selection.

Suppose a Small Number of Geese Are Born with a Genetic