Question

In a population of robins, you observe that the intensity of the rusty coloration on the breast is variable. You also note that darker colored males mate more often than lighter colored males. What component of natural selection still needs to be identified before you can conclude that natural selection can operate on this trait in this population of robins?

A. Genetic variation in rusty coloration
B. Differential reproductive success
C. Heritability of rusty coloration
D. Environmental changes affecting coloration

Answer 1

To conclude that natural selection can operate on the rusty coloration trait in robins, we need to identify the heritability of rusty coloration.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to conclude that natural selection can operate on the rusty coloration trait in the population of robins, we still need to identify the heritability of rusty coloration. This means we need to determine whether the trait is genetically inherited and can be passed down to offspring. If the trait is heritable, then natural selection can act on it by favoring individuals with darker coloration, resulting in higher mating success.