Question

which of the following is true about variation? mutations always reduce variation. sexual reproduction reduces variation. individualvariation is necessary for natural selection to occur. species with more variation are more likely to go extinct.

Explanation:

• Mutations can introduce new genetic material, increasing variation, so "Mutations always reduce variation" is false.
• Sexual reproduction combines genetic material from two parents, increasing variation, so "Sexual reproduction reduces variation" is false.
• Natural selection acts on individual variations. If all individuals were identical, there would be no "selection" as all would have the same traits. So individual variation is necessary for natural selection.
• Species with more variation have a better chance of adapting to changing environments (more traits to "choose" from via natural selection), so they are less likely to go extinct. Thus "Species with more variation are more likely to go extinct" is false.

Answer:

individual variation is necessary for natural selection to occur.