Question

Some individuals in a lizard species have the ability to change the color of their skin (camouflage) to avoid predators. Eventually, the camouflage lizards will have the most individuals in the population attract fewer mates for reproduction, lose their ability to change skin colors, die out in the population.

Answer 1

Lizards with predatory threats are more likely to evolve survival adaptations like camouflage, but in predator-free environments, these adaptations may not develop. Chameleons, for example, change skin color for camouflage and communication. Natural selection shapes lizard behavior and physical traits to enhance survival in specific environments.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lizards in environments with predators are likely to develop adaptations for survival such as camouflaged coloration, sharp spines, or toxins. These traits aid in evasion or deterrence of predators. For instance, chameleons can change their skin color for camouflage and social signaling by redistributing pigments in their chromatophores. This ability not only helps them blend in with their surroundings to avoid predators but also facilitates communication with other chameleons. However, in environments without these predators, such adaptations may not evolve because they are not necessary for survival. Additionally, behaviors like running across water and changing color in times of stress contribute to lizard behavior that enhances survival. Overall, natural selection will favor individuals with traits that provide a survival advantage in their specific environment.