Which of the following characteristics 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

Natural selection acts on genetic variation in populations, so traits that are genetically based are the ones that can be affected by natural selection and play a role in the process of biological evolution. Environmental conditions may influence the expression of a trait, but they do not directly impact evolution. Social rank, physical characteristics, and behavioral characteristics may have an impact on an organism's fitness, but they do not necessarily involve genetic variation and thus are not necessarily subject to natural selection.

Which of the Following Characteristics Must Be True in Order