Question

a male cardinals red color is an example of a trait affected by natural selection. the females of the species choose males based on the vibrant colors of the males feathers. if females began using different criteria than feather color when they choose mates, what would most likely happen to the color of the male cardinals over time?
o increased variation in the shades of red because there is no advantage to having a specific color
o increased variation in the shades of red because the population has different ways to impress the females
o decreased variation in the shades of red because theres no longer a trait that is advantageous
o decreased variation in the shades of red after a few generations

Explanation:

Natural selection acts on traits when they affect reproductive success. If female cardinals no longer use feather color to choose mates, the red color trait loses its selective advantage. Without selection pressure favoring specific shades of red, there would be no bias against less vibrant or varied shades, leading to more variation over time.

Answer:

Increased variation in the shades of red because there is no selection for more vibrant color (Note: Assuming the first option is the correct one based on the logic; if the exact option text was clearer, it would align with this reasoning.)

Wait, correcting based on standard evolutionary logic: When a trait is no longer under selection (mate choice based on color stops), variation in that trait increases because there's no pressure to maintain a specific form. So the correct option would be the one stating increased variation due to lack of selection for vibrant color.

Assuming the first option (as partially visible) is: "Increased variation in the shades of red because there is no selection for more vibrant color" – that is the correct answer.

Final Answer:

Increased variation in the shades of red because there is no selection for more vibrant color (matching the logical correct option)