Question

a male cardinals red color is an example of a trait affected by natural selection. the females of the species choose mates based on the vibrant colors of the males feathers. if females begin using different criteria than feather color when they choose mates, what would most likely happen to the color of the male cardinals over time?
increased variation in the shades of red because there is no advantage in one specific color
increased variation in the shades of red because the cardinals try different ways to impress the females
decreased variation in the shades of red over time because no form of the trait is advantageous
decreased variation in the shades of red after a single generation

Explanation:

When females no longer use feather color as a mating criterion, the specific red shade that was previously favored loses its selective advantage. Without selection pressure favoring one shade over others, genetic variation in red shades is no longer constrained, leading to increased variation over time.

Answer:

increased variation in the shades of red because there is no advantage in one specific color