Praying mantises are typically green or brown in color to allow them to blend into their surroundings. If a group of praying mantises were born a different color, they would be at a disadvantage. This change, although not advantageous for the mantis, could happen naturally through
A) mutation.
B) gene splicing.
C) genetic alteration.
D) natural selection.
E) genetic predisposition.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mutations are random changes in genetic material that can lead to variations in characteristics. If a praying mantis population experiences a mutation that causes a change in color, individuals with the advantageous coloration would be more likely to survive and pass on their genes. This process, known as natural selection, would result in the spread of the advantageous coloration through the population. Gene splicing and genetic alteration involve intentional manipulation of genetic material and are not natural processes. Genetic predisposition refers to the increased likelihood of certain traits based on inherited genes, but does not account for random mutations.

Praying Mantises Are Typically Green or Brown in Color to Allow