Question

a small number of finches live in a protected bird area. they are given as much food as they need and have plenty of space. why would natural selection not occur in this population?
a. the population has no genetic variation.
b. the birds have no reason to mutate.
c. the population is above carrying capacity.
d. the birds do not compete for resources.

Explanation:

Natural selection occurs when there is competition for resources. In this case, the finches have plenty of food and space. So, there is no competition for resources. Without competition, natural selection (which acts on traits that give an advantage in resource - acquisition) cannot occur.

• Option A: A small population can still have genetic variation.
• Option B: Mutations are random and not dependent on a "reason" in this context.
• Option C: The population is not above carrying capacity as there are enough resources.

Answer:

D. The birds do not compete for resources.