Final answer:
Genetic and environmental factors interact to drive natural selection. Genetic variation provides the potential for adaptation, while environmental conditions affect the survival and reproduction of organisms with certain traits. The correct answer is (c) Genetic and environmental factors both play a role in natural selection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Genetic and environmental factors both play a role in natural selection. This process relies on the presence of genetic variation within a population, where different alleles can lead to different phenotypes that may either be beneficial or detrimental to an organism's survival and reproductive success. However, these genetic features only become relevant within the context of an environment that interacts with them. For example, mutations and genetic drift introduce new genetic variations, while environmental conditions—like climate and food availability—influence the expression of these genes and the survival of individuals with certain traits.
Natural selection acts on heritable traits by selecting for alleles that are advantageous for survival in a given environment and selecting against those that are harmful. The concept of genetic environmental correlation suggests that genes and environment have a bidirectional influence on each other. For instance, environmental factors such as sun exposure or temperature can impact phenotypes, such as skin color or sex determination in certain reptiles. On the other hand, genes can predispose individuals to certain environments, further affecting the expression of genes.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question 'How do BOTH genetic and environmental factors play a part in natural selection?' is (c) Genetic and environmental factors both play a role in natural selection.