A trait that has been selected for because it increases the reproductive fitness of the organism is a(n):
A)phenotype
B)transmission
C)gene
D)adaptation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A trait that has been selected for because it increases the reproductive fitness of the organism is known as an adaptation. This is because the trait improves the organism's chances of surviving and reproducing in its environment, and therefore is more likely to be passed on to future generations. Phenotype refers to the observable characteristics of an organism, transmission refers to the passing on of genetic information from one generation to another, and gene refers to a specific segment of DNA that encodes a particular trait. While these terms are all related to the concept of evolution, only adaptation specifically refers to a trait that has been favored by natural selection due to its beneficial effects on reproductive success.

A Trait That Has Been Selected for Because It Increases