The common garter snake is a predator of the rough-skinned newt. These newts produce a potent neurotoxin that is concentrated in their skin, but garter snakes have evolved resistance to this toxin. Over the years, the neurotoxin has become more toxic. How might the toxin have changed over time?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mutation is the process by which the genetic material of an organism changes, leading to new variations. In the context of the rough-skinned newt, mutations in the genes responsible for producing the neurotoxin could lead to changes in the toxin's potency over time, as part of an evolutionary arms race with predators like the garter snake.

The Common Garter Snake Is a Predator of the Rough-Skinned