Question

what type of natural selection selects for the average phenotype of
a polygenic trait in a population?
a disruptive selection
b directional selection
c stabilizing selection

Explanation:

To determine the type of natural selection that selects for the average phenotype of a polygenic trait, we analyze each option:

• Disruptive selection: Favors extreme phenotypes at both ends of the range, not the average.
• Directional selection: Shifts the population's phenotype toward one extreme, not the average.
• Stabilizing selection: Selects against extreme phenotypes and favors the average (or intermediate) phenotype, which is consistent with selecting for the average phenotype of a polygenic trait.

Answer:

c. stabilizing selection