For natural selection to work on a particular population
A) their members must have a sufficiently long enough life span.
B) the environment must remain constant.
C) there must be a strong will to survive among the members of the population.
D) there must be variety within that population.
E) there must be genotypic diversity but phenotypic homogeneity.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Natural selection relies on the existence of variation within a population, where some individuals have traits better suited for survival and reproduction in a given environment. Without variation, there is no basis for selection to act upon. A long life span (A) or a constant environment (B) may affect the magnitude or rate of selection, but are not necessary for it to occur. A strong will to survive (C) is a subjective and unclear term that does not directly relate to the genetic basis of natural selection. Genotypic diversity and phenotypic homogeneity (E) would not allow for selection, as the presence of different genotypes would not translate into visible differences in the traits that determine fitness.

For Natural Selection to Work on a Particular Population