Question
Male birds often have bright feathers and use complex dances to attract females. If a certain male has less colorful feathers or a less lively dance than other males, which of the following might occur? He will mate less often, and his genetic information will not be passed as often to future generations. He will not survive migrating south for the winter. He will be more attractive to predators. He will mate more often, passing more of his genetic information to future generations.
Answer
4.3
(330 Votes)
Urena
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
'He will mate less often, and his genetic information will not be passed as often to future generations.'
Explanation
## Step 1This problem involves understanding the concept of sexual selection, a key component of evolutionary biology. In many animal species, males often exhibit special physical characteristics, such as bright feathers, or behaviors, like complex dances, to attract females for mating. These traits are often indicative of a male's fitness, and females generally prefer males with more pronounced features.## Step 2The problem presents a scenario where a male bird has less colorful feathers or a less lively dance than other males. This could be interpreted as a lack of genetic fitness.## Step 3Given this scenario, we need to consider the potential consequences of the male's lack of these likable traits. If a male bird does not have bright feathers or a lively dance, he may be less attractive to females. This could result in fewer mating opportunities.## Step 4Fewer mating opportunities mean that the male bird will pass less of his genetic information to future generations. This is because fewer offspring will carry his genes.