Question

A population of snakes that eat small rodents enters a new habitat. In the new habitat, there are many species of rodents, and their populations are high because there are few natural predators. What will most likely be the effect on the genetic variation of the snake population?

Genetic variation will increase because of a selective pressure.

Genetic variation will increase because of a new habitat and food source.

Genetic variation will decrease because of a selective pressure.

Genetic variation will decrease because of a new habitat and food source.

Answer 1

2nd option, Genetic variation will increase because of a new habitat and food source

Tons of food (rodents) and they would have no competition for the rodents in the new habitat

Answer 2

The correct answer is the 2nd statement.

Step-by-step explanation:

Genetic variation signifies the naturally taking place genetic differences, which prevails between the individuals of similar species. Genetic variation is essential as it permits the individuals to thrive better in a given surrounding.

In the mentioned case, when the snakes enter a novel habitat, they came across a condition where there are lesser natural predators and because of this they had enough food and less competition. Therefore, no selective pressure is exhibited to affect genetic variation.

Additionally, in the availability of enough food and non-existence of competition, the genetic variation will only enhance. Thus, in the mentioned case, the genetic variation of the snakes enhances because of the food source and new habitat.