Question

scientists have discovered that the mcir gene in mice regulates pigment levels during hair synthesis. mutations in the mcir gene are dominant and when present, produce mice with dark fur. in which of the following populations would you expect to find an mcir mutation and what advantage would having the mutation confer?
multiple choice
dark - furred mice, which will have better hunting abilities
dark - furred mice, which will have better camouflage in areas with black rocks
white - furred mice, which will have better thermoregulation ability
white - furred mice, which will have better camouflage in areas with black rocks

Explanation:

The MC1R mutation causes dark fur. Camouflage helps with survival. Dark fur would blend better with black rocks compared to white fur. Hunting ability isn't related to fur color in this context. Thermoregulation isn't the key advantage here as the mutation's main effect is on pigment (fur color).

Answer:

dark - furred mice, which will have better camouflage in areas with black rocks