An elk herd is observed over many generations.Most of the full- grown bull elk have antlers of nearly the same size,although a few have antlers that are significantly larger or smaller than this average size.The average antler size remains constant over the generations.Which of the following effects probably accounts for this situation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stabilizing selection is a type of natural selection that favors the average phenotype and selects against extreme variations. In this case, it is likely that there is stabilizing selection acting on antler size, with the average size being favored and extremes being selected against. This would allow the average antler size to remain constant over generations, despite the presence of a few individuals with significantly larger or smaller antlers.

An Elk Herd Is Observed Over Many Generations