Biology Regents Practice Exam

Why might the Florida panther population not continue to evolve?

1. Reduced chance of mutations

2. Lack of competition for resources

3. Absence of reproductive advantages

4. Lack of genetic variation for selection

The correct answer is: Lack of genetic variation for selection

The Florida panther population may not continue to evolve primarily due to a lack of genetic variation for natural selection to act upon. Genetic variation is crucial for evolution because it provides the raw material that can lead to adaptations in response to environmental pressures. Without sufficient genetic diversity, the population has limited ability to adapt to changing conditions or to develop traits that may offer survival advantages. If the genetic variation within the Florida panther population is low, this can lead to inbreeding, which often results in a decrease in fitness and an increase in genetic disorders. Consequently, there may be less likelihood of beneficial mutations occurring, and any existing traits may not provide the necessary advantages in changing environments. Therefore, this limited genetic variation can hinder the population’s potential for ongoing evolutionary change.