A sparrow population currently eats seeds that are mostly of medium size.Which condition will most likely lead to more diversifying selection?
A) A decrease in size in the sparrow population
B) More seeds that are either considerably smaller or considerably larger than average, with fewer that are of intermediate size
C) More seeds that are intermediate in size
D) More seeds that are somewhat larger than average and fewer that are smaller than average
E) A reduction in the overall number of seeds, with no change in the distribution

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

More seeds that are either considerably smaller or considerably larger than average, with fewer that are of intermediate size, would create a situation where sparrows with beaks specialized for small or large seeds would have an advantage. This would lead to diversifying selection as the population splits into two groups with different beak sizes and preferences. The other options would not necessarily lead to diversifying selection.

A Sparrow Population Currently Eats Seeds That Are Mostly of Medium