Question

which statement best describes the role of limited resources in the evolution of traits within a population?
a. traits that enable individuals to better compete for resources may become more common over multiple generations.

b. individuals with the same genetic traits will mate and produce individuals with different traits to compete for limited resources.

c. individuals who obtain resources using strategies they have learned will live longer and pass these traits to the next generation.

d. traits that allow individuals to acquire resources more efficiently may be selected against in order to preserve the survival of the whole population.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: In evolution, traits that help individuals compete better for limited resources (due to natural selection) become more common over generations as those with such traits survive and reproduce more. This aligns with the role of limited resources driving the prevalence of advantageous traits.
• Option B: Individuals with the same genetic traits would have similar traits, not different, so this is incorrect.
• Option C: Learned strategies are not passed genetically (Lamarckian, incorrect in modern evolution theory).
• Option D: Traits aiding resource acquisition are selected for (not against) to help the population, so this is wrong.

Answer:

A. Traits that enable individuals to better compete for resources may become more common over multiple generations.