In evolutionary terms,'fitness' refers to
A) the likelihood that a species will survive a harsh winter.
B) the extent of physical and psychological adaptability within an individual.
C) the ability of an individual to survive and reproduce.
D) the preference of individuals for specific traits in their mates.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fitness in evolutionary terms refers to an individual's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment, passing its genes onto the next generation. The more successful an individual is at reproducing, the higher its fitness. It is not necessarily related to adaptability within an individual or mate preferences. Survival during a harsh winter may be a factor affecting fitness, but it is not the sole determining factor.

In Evolutionary Terms,'fitness' Refers to