In a hypothetical environment, fish called pike-cichlids are visual predators of algae-eating fish (in other words, they locate their prey by sight). If a population of algae-eaters experiences predation pressure from pike-cichlids, which of the following is least likely to be observed in the algae-eater population over the course of many generations?
A)selection for drab colouration of the algae-eaters
B)selection for nocturnal algae-eaters (active only at night)
C)selection for larger female algae-eaters, bearing broods composed of more, and larger, young
D)selection for algae-eaters that become sexually mature at smaller overall body sizes
E)selection for algae-eaters that are faster swimmers

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is unlikely that selection for larger female algae-eaters would occur in this scenario. Predation pressure typically selects for smaller body size and earlier maturation to increase survivorship and reproduction.

In a Hypothetical Environment, Fish Called Pike-Cichlids Are Visual Predators