When we observe a population with a trait that does not appear to be adaptive, it may be because
A) the population has been pushed by habitat destruction to the extreme edge of its normal range.
B) the population is being exposed to a novel species, such as a new predator, introduced intentionally or by accident.
C) there is a time lag between natural selection and its effects.
D) all of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Traits that appear non-adaptive may be observed in a population for several reasons, including habitat destruction pushing the population to the edge of its normal range, exposure to novel species like new predators, and the time lag between the action of natural selection and the manifestation of its effects. All these factors can contribute to the presence of seemingly non-adaptive traits.

When We Observe a Population with a Trait That Does