Most Swiss starlings (birds) produce four to five eggs in each clutch. Starlings producing more or less eggs have reduced fitness. Which of the following terms best describes this situation?
A) directional selection
B) stabilizing selection
C) disruptive selection
D) sexual selection

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stabilizing selection is the correct term because it describes a type of natural selection in which genetic diversity decreases as the population stabilizes on a particular trait value. In this case, the trait value is the production of four to five eggs, which is favored over other values (more or less), leading to increased fitness for those within this range.

Most Swiss Starlings (Birds) Produce Four to Five Eggs in Each