Which characteristic must be true in order for a trait to be impacted by the forces of natural selection and then play a role in the process of biological evolution?
A) The trait must be the result of environmental conditions.
B) The trait must be genetically based.
C) The trait must impact the social rank of its possessor.
D) The trait must be a physical characteristic of the organism.
E) The trait must be a behavioral characteristic of the organism.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In order to be impacted by natural selection and play a role in the process of biological evolution, a trait must be genetically based. This means that it is inherited by offspring from parents, and variations in the trait can lead to differences in survival and reproductive success. Traits that are solely the result of environmental conditions, or that only impact social rank or behavior, may not be subject to the same pressures of natural selection as genetically based traits. Physical characteristics can be genetically based, but not all physical characteristics are subject to natural selection or contribute to evolution in the same way.

Which Characteristic Must Be True in Order for a Trait