Question

1. a mutation in the taqpep gene affects how pigment is distributed throughout a cheetahs coat. what role does this mutation play in trait variation?

it creates a different protein that leads to a new spot pattern.
it removes all genetic variation from the population.
it allows the cheetah to camouflage in any environment.
it prevents the cheetah from forming any spots.

Explanation:

Analyze the effect of gene mutations on proteins

A mutation in a gene alters its DNA sequence, which can lead to the production of a modified protein with a different structure or function.

Connect protein changes to phenotypic traits

The altered protein affects cellular processes, in this case, how pigment is distributed, resulting in a visible variation in the cheetah's coat pattern (phenotype).

Evaluate the given multiple-choice options

• Option 1 correctly describes this biological pathway: a mutation creates a different protein, leading to a new spot pattern.
• Option 2 is incorrect because mutations introduce, rather than remove, genetic variation.
• Option 3 is incorrect as a single coat pattern mutation does not grant universal camouflage.
• Option 4 is incorrect because the mutation alters pigment distribution (such as blotches instead of spots) rather than preventing all spot formation.

Answer:

• It creates a different protein that leads to a new spot pattern. (Correct answer)
• It removes all genetic variation from the population.
• It allows the cheetah to camouflage in any environment.
• It prevents the cheetah from forming any spots.