Which of the following is an example of biological evolution?
A) You are vaccinated against polio and are protected against the disease.
B) A tree branch is broken off and another grows in its place.
C) Over time, a species of caterpillar becomes the same shade of green as the leaves on which it feeds.
D) The average woman's dress size has increased over the last 50 years.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The change in color of the caterpillar over time is an example of biological evolution through natural selection. The caterpillars that are the same shade of green as their environment are more likely to blend in and avoid predation, increasing their chance of survival and reproduction. Over time, the population becomes more homogenous in color as the advantageous trait is passed down through generations.

The other choices do not represent biological evolution as they either involve individual changes or changes that do not involve genetic variation and natural selection.

Which of the Following Is an Example of Biological Evolution