Which of the following can act as a constraint on the evolutionary process?
A) The trade-off between the cost and benefit of an adaptation
B) The occurrence of rare catastrophic events, such as meteorite impacts
C) The fact that all evolutionary innovations are modifications of previously existing structures
D) Both a and c
E) All of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All the options listed can act as constraints on the evolutionary process. The trade-off between the cost and benefit of an adaptation (A) can limit the development or persistence of certain traits. The occurrence of rare catastrophic events (B) can drastically alter the course of evolution by causing mass extinctions or changing environments. The fact that all evolutionary innovations are modifications of previously existing structures (C) means that evolution is constrained by an organism's existing anatomy and genetic makeup, limiting the directions evolution can take.

Which of the Following Can Act as a Constraint on the Evolutionary