Researchers studying two species of frogs found that one species seemed to be more numerous in ponds with lots of fishes, whereas the other species was more numerous in ponds with relatively fewer fishes. Using your understanding of the evolutionary concept of fitness, choose the statement that best describes the situation.
A) It is only a matter of time before one of these species becomes more numerous in both ponds because certain traits are reproduced more successfully than others regardless of environment.
B) It is likely that the two species differ in a trait that makes one better suited to ponds with lots of fishes and one better suited to ponds with fewer fishes.
C) Both species are likely to become extinct in the near future as neither can successfully cohabit with fishes.
D) Over time the numbers of the two species will become more equal, regardless of the type of pond they inhabit.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The situation suggests that the two frog species have different traits that make them better suited to the different environments. This would indicate that one species has a higher fitness in ponds with lots of fishes, while the other species has a higher fitness in ponds with fewer fishes. Natural selection would favor the traits that allow each species to survive better in their respective environments. Therefore, over time, the two frog species will likely continue to thrive in their preferred environments. Option A is incorrect because natural selection operates based on the fitness of traits in a specific environment. Option C is incorrect because the situation does not suggest that either species is likely to go extinct. Option D is also incorrect because, according to the situation presented, the numbers of the two species are not expected to become more equal over time.

Researchers Studying Two Species of Frogs Found That One Species