Question

Variation in a trait is a required condition for natural selection to act on a population for that trait. Assuming a population of organisms started with only one form of a trait, what are two ways variation in the trait could be introduced into the population? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

1. Mutation

2. Epigenetics

Step-by-step explanation:

1. Mutation occurs when there is a change in an organism's DNA sequence as a result of mistakes in DNA replication or as a result of environmental factors like smoking. The mutation in a single organism can be passed on to other generations hence causing a genetic variation in the population, this obeys the Darwin's law that inherited traits (genetic) are passed on to other generations

2. Epigenetics are changes in gene expression that doesn't involve changes in the DNA sequences unlike mutation. This changes can be passed on to other generations and hence cause a variation in the population. This obeys the Lamarckian evolution that acquired traits are passed on to other generations.

A mutation is a change that occurs in our DNA sequence, either due to mistakes when the DNA is copied or as the result of environmental factors such as UV light and cigarette smoke.