Question

which environmental factor would likely lead to an increase in genetic variation in a population of squirrels?
○ an increase in predators
○ an increase in available food
○ an increase in forest fires
○ an increase in pollution

Explanation:

To determine the environmental factor increasing genetic variation in squirrels, we analyze each option:

• Increase in predators: Likely reduces population (via natural selection), decreasing genetic variation (fewer individuals, less diversity).
• Increase in available food: Supports population growth, allowing more individuals to survive/reproduce. Larger populations with more opportunities for mutations, gene flow, or sexual reproduction (e.g., more mating) tend to have increased genetic variation.
• Increase in forest fires: Destroys habitat, reducing population size (bottleneck effect), which decreases genetic variation.
• Increase in pollution: Harms health/survival, reducing population and genetic diversity (similar to predators/fires).

Only increased food availability promotes population expansion, creating conditions for more genetic diversity.

Answer:

B. an increase in available food