Question

In years of abundant rainfall, there can be 20 inches or more of rain. In these years, plants produce an enormous number and variety of seeds.

Question: How does plentiful rainfall affect the finch population and average beak depth?

Answer 1

Plentiful rainfall can positively impact the finch population and average beak depth by providing more food resources and driving natural selection for adaptations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Plentiful rainfall can have a positive impact on the finch population and average beak depth. When there is abundant rainfall, plants produce an enormous number and variety of seeds. This increased availability of seeds can provide more food resources for the finches, leading to a higher population. Additionally, the abundance of seeds may result in increased competition for resources, which can drive natural selection for adaptations that enhance feeding efficiency. In the case of the Galápagos finches, a drought led to a decrease in available seeds, causing only birds with larger beaks to survive and reproduce, resulting in an increase in average beak size over time.