In guppy populations that experience low predation by small predators, researchers found that females produced fewer but larger offspring than in populations that experienced high predation by large predators, where females produced many small offspring. Which of the following could explain this observation?
A) In populations with many large predators, the predators can eat guppies no matter the size, so females that produce the most offspring, regardless of size, have the highest fitness.
B) In populations with low predation by small predators, natural selection favors the production of fewer offspring because females that expend fewer resources on reproduction are less likely to be eaten by predators.
C) Regardless of predation risk, it is beneficial for females to produce fewer offspring because this allows the investment of more resources into each offspring, increasing its chances of survival.
D) Under low predation risk, female guppies produce offspring sooner than in populations with high predation; therefore, offspring are larger because they have more time to grow.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In populations with many large predators, producing a higher number of offspring increases the chances that some will survive, despite the predators' ability to consume guppies of any size. This strategy maximizes reproductive success under high predation pressure.

In Guppy Populations That Experience Low Predation by Small Predators