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Identify the breed of rabbit from the following definition: Originally a commercial breed, this breed is a popular show breed, and as the name implies, is of impressive size. (Large)

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Final answer:

The Flemish Giant is the breed of rabbit that is large and was originally a commercial breed before becoming popular for shows. Larger rabbits may be at a natural disadvantage in the wild due to visibility to predators, but certain traits like coloration can be an adaptation to environmental conditions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Large rabbits like the Flemish Giant can be at a disadvantage in the wild compared to smaller rabbits because they are more conspicuous to predators. However, in a show environment or as pets, their size can be an advantage, making them a popular choice. The survival of a rabbit in the wild often depends on its environment and adaptation traits; for instance, rabbits in the Arctic evolve to have white fur to camouflage with the snow and avoid predators such as foxes, an example of natural selection ensuring the preferential survival of rabbits with traits favorable to their environment.

Similarly, the Himalayan phenotype in rabbits is an adaptation where an allele causes a temperature-sensitive gene product that leads to pigment only forming on the cooler parts of the body, much like the coloration found in Siamese cats.

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