The activity of predators has caused their prey to evolve a variety of protective characteristics.How were the prey able to acquire these new features?
A) The prey selectively bred to increase the frequency of protective traits in their population.
B) The prey underwent a population explosion that allowed them to outnumber their predators and thus develop new protective features.
C) The prey organisms mated with other species to acquire new protective traits.
D) Natural selection acted on genetic variability already present in the prey population.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most likely reason for prey to evolve protective characteristics is through natural selection acting on genetic variability that already exists within their population. Prey with characteristics that provide them with an advantage against predation, such as camouflage or defensive adaptations, are more likely to survive and pass their traits to their offspring. As a result, over time, these characteristics become more prevalent in the population, making it harder for predators to catch their prey. A is incorrect because species don't selectively breed like humans do. B is incorrect because a population explosion does not cause organisms to acquire new traits. C is incorrect because mating with other species does not result in new protective traits that are useful in avoiding predators.

The Activity of Predators Has Caused Their Prey to Evolve