A species of mouse that is preyed on by owls (which can see color) at dawn and dusk varies in coat color between dark and light brown. Under which of the following conditions will NO evolution occur if climate change results in the soil color becoming darker?
A) Dark-colored mice are more likely to be eaten by owls.
B) Light-colored mice produce more offspring than dark-colored mice.
C) There is no variability in the genes that control coat color.
D) There is no way to make a prediction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If there is no variability in the genes that control coat color, evolution cannot occur because evolution depends on genetic variation as a prerequisite for natural selection to act upon. Without genetic variability, there can be no differential survival or reproduction based on coat color, and thus no evolution in response to the changing environment.

A Species of Mouse That Is Preyed on by Owls