Question
Adapted from: http://evolution.berkeley edu/evolibrary/article The many varieties of domesticated dogs were most likely produced as a result of (1) mutating the body cells of the dogs (2) selective breeding over many generations (3) genetic engineering with specific enzymes (4) cloning dogs with desirable traits
Answer
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Keaton
Veteran · Tutor for 11 years
Answer
The most likely method that led to the production of many varieties of dogs is option 2, i.e., selective breeding over many generations.
Explanation
## Step 1This problem is about understanding the methods that have been used to create the diverse breeds of domesticated dogs. The process of creating different dog breeds involves selective breeding over many generations, which alters the gene pool leading to diversity among species.## Step 2Analyzing the options, option 2, which is selective breeding over many generations, means choosing certain dogs with desirable traits to reproduce over many generations. This process leads to the development of different breeds over time.## Step 3On the contrary, option 1, which involves mutating the body cells of the dogs, refers to intentional manipulation of the dog's anatomy. However, diversity between species cannot be formed through just a mutation, hence this option is not plausible.## Step 4Options 3 and 4, which involve genetic engineering with specific enzymes and cloning of dogs respectively, are also not plausible scenarios. This is because modern genetic engineering and cloning techniques were not available throughout most of the time period over which domesticated dog breeds were established through selective breeding.