Question

given the information, which of the following best describes the effect of skin - color phenotype on the fitness of the lizards in the investigation?
a the red - color phenotype does not affect fitness given that the frequency of red lizards in the population changes less than the frequency of brown or black lizards.
b the black color phenotype results in an increase in the fitness of black individuals in the population given the increase in the frequency of black individuals in the population.
c the brown - color phenotype results in an increase the fitness of brown individuals in the population because brown individuals are not easily seen by predators.
d color phenotypes are not subject to natural selection. the changes in frequency in the population are due to random fluctuations.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Arguing that a smaller frequency change implies no fitness effect is incorrect. Fitness relates to survival/reproduction, not just frequency change magnitude.
• Option B: Fitness in evolution is about reproductive success/survival. If black lizards' frequency increases, it suggests they are better at surviving/reproducing (higher fitness), so this is consistent with natural selection.
• Option C: The option states a reason (not seen by predators) but without data on brown lizards' frequency change, we can't confirm. The question likely has data (implied) showing black lizards' frequency increased, making B more supported.
• Option D: Color phenotypes are subject to natural selection (e.g., camouflage), so this is wrong.

Answer:

B. The black color phenotype results in an increase in the fitness of black individuals in the population given the increase in the frequency of black individuals in the population.