A behavior can evolve through natural selection if
A) there is variation in the behavior among individuals in the population.
B) the behavior influences the fitness of an individual possessing it.
C) the behavior is heritable.
D) a and b
E) a, b, and c

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For a behavior to evolve through natural selection, it must vary among individuals in the population (A), affect the fitness of individuals who exhibit it (B), and be heritable (C). Variability ensures that there are differences that can be acted upon by selection, the influence on fitness determines whether the behavior will be selected for or against, and heritability ensures that the behavior can be passed on to the next generation, allowing evolutionary change over time.

A Behavior Can Evolve Through Natural Selection If