In New Mexico, large expanses of black lava create patches of unique habitat. If, in every generation, selection favors the darkest colored pocket mice in those habitats because they are best hidden from predators, this would be an example of:
A)balancing selection.
B)stabilizing selection.
C)directional selection.
D)disruptional selection.
E)heterozygote advantage.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This scenario represents directional selection because the selection is favoring individuals with a specific trait (dark coloration) and causing the frequency of that trait to increase over time. Balancing selection involves selection for multiple traits, stabilizing selection involves selection for an intermediate trait, disruptional selection involves selection for extreme traits, and heterozygote advantage involves selection for heterozygous individuals.

In New Mexico, Large Expanses of Black Lava Create Patches