Final answer:
The statement that snakes with fish-specific venom were less likely to survive and reproduce than those with snake-specific venom is true. This is in accordance with the principles of natural selection, as traits that enhance survival and reproductive success become more prevalent.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the information, snakes with fish-specific venom were less likely to survive and reproduce than snakes with snake-specific venom. This suggests that having fish-specific venom was less advantageous than having snake-specific venom in the context provided. This conclusion is drawn from the principles of natural selection, which implies that the traits which enhance survival and reproductive success in a given environment become more common within a population over time.
Snakes have evolved to have specialized features such as specialized jaws to feed on a variety of prey, including fish, other snakes, small animals, and insects. The adaptability and evolutionary success of a species of snake can be affected by its venom's efficacy against its typical prey. Predators with more effective venom for their specific prey are more likely to thrive, as it directly impacts their ability to feed and reproduce.
Given that the context implies a competition for survival and reproduction, it is true that the snakes with the less advantageous venom (fish-specific in this case) would be naturally selected against compared to those with the more advantageous snake-specific venom.