In what type of environment is being heterozygous in regards to the sickle-cell trait an advantage?
A) an environment that has malaria
B) an environment that is malaria-free
C) an environment that is exposed to a large amount of sunlight year-round
D) an environment that is degraded
E) an environment that is cold and rainy Being heterozygous in an environment that has malaria is advantageous. The heterozygote produces red blood cells that secrete potassium, which causes the malaria parasite to die.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Being heterozygous for the sickle-cell trait provides a selective advantage in environments where malaria is prevalent. The sickle-cell trait causes the red blood cells to become misshapen, which affects the ability of the malaria parasite to infect and reproduce within the cell. As a result, individuals who are heterozygous for the sickle-cell trait (i.e. carry one copy of the normal hemoglobin gene and one copy of the sickle-cell hemoglobin gene) are protected against the severe symptoms of malaria.

In What Type of Environment Is Being Heterozygous in Regards