The primary difference(s) between the processes of natural selection and artificial selection is/are
A) the mechanism for descent and modification.
B) that artificial selection focuses on nonheritable traits while natural selection focuses on heritable traits.
C) the selective agent and the period of time over which change occurs.
D) that artificial selection focuses on creating varieties while natural selection only produces species.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The primary difference between natural selection and artificial selection is the selective agent and the period of time over which change occurs. Natural selection is driven by environmental factors, i.e., the selective agent, and can occur over a long period of time whereas artificial selection only occurs over a short period of time and is driven by human selection. In artificial selection, humans select desirable traits and breed organisms to enhance those traits, while in natural selection, the environment selects traits that increase an organism's chances of survival and reproduction. Mechanism for descent and modification (A) is the same in both processes, as they both involve genetic variation and inheritance. Option B is incorrect as natural selection also focuses on heritable traits. Option D is incorrect as natural selection can also create varieties and not just species.

The Primary Difference(s) Between the Processes of Natural Selection and Artificial