Question

Within a species of short, ground-dwelling animals, two parents produced a group of offspring that were 1 cm taller than they were. These offspring were able to reach slightly higher vegetation than their parents and other members of the species. When the offspring grew up, they produced new offspring who were also slightly taller and could also reach the higher vegetation. This process continued over several generations such that offspring became gradually taller with time. Eventually, after many generations, all members of the species were at least 20 cm taller than the original two parents that produced the slightly taller offspring. What does this illustrate?

A. Only major differences between parents and offspring can result in future generations that are very different from their ancestors.

B. Ground-dwelling animals would survive better if they evolve to be shorter.

C. Slight differences between parents and offspring can eventually result in future generations that are very different from their ancestors.

D. Biological change does not apply to ground-dwelling animals.

Answer 1

The answer in this case would be C) Slight differences between parents and offspring can eventually result in future generations that are very different from their ancestors.

Answer 2

C. Slight differences between parents and offspring can eventually result in future generations that are very different from their ancestors.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question above shows an evolutionary process that resulted in a generation with some physical differences when compared to the previous generation.

As shown in the question above, members of an animal population had offspring that were taller than their parents. This difference in height brought some advantages, since these new members of the population were able to reach higher vegetation.

Over time, these new members grew up and had even taller children. Eventually, members of past generations began to die, making the population comprised of the highest members.

In summary, we can say that, in the case shown above, small differences between parents and offspring can result in future generations that are very different from their ancestors.