Which statement about fitness and natural selection is true?
A) The fitness of individuals of a particular phenotype is a function of the probability that such individuals survive, multiplied by the average number of offspring they produce.
B) The fitness of individuals of a particular phenotype is a function of the probability that such individuals survive, divided by the average number of offspring they produce.
C) Changes in the absolute numbers of offspring necessarily lead to changes in allele frequencies from one generation to the next.
D) Natural selection operates directly on the genotype.
E) The fitness of an individual is determined solely by its ability to survive.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fitness is a measure of an individual's ability to survive and reproduce. It is determined by both the probability of survival and the average number of offspring produced. This definition is captured in choice A, which correctly states that fitness is a function of both survival and reproductive success. The other choices make inaccurate statements or do not capture the full definition of fitness and natural selection.

Which Statement About Fitness and Natural Selection Is True