Researchers Have Been Studying a Rare Population of 87 Voles

question 68

Multiple Choice

Researchers have been studying a rare population of 87 voles in an isolated area. Ten voles from a larger population were added to this isolated population. Besides having ten additional animals, what benefits are there to importing individuals?

• A) There is no benefit other than increasing the overall population size.
• B) Additional voles will strengthen competition and increase the survival of the fittest.
• C) Additional animals would increase beneficial genetic drift.
• D) Additional voles from a distant population will likely increase genetic diversity and reduce inbreeding.

---

Definitions:

Cogent

The property of an inductive argument that is strong and whose premises are true.

Valid

Correct or acceptable according to the law or logic; having a sound basis in reasoning or fact.

Premises

Premises are statements or propositions that provide the basis or grounds for a conclusion in logical reasoning.

Generalization

A principle, statement, or idea having general applicability, often involving a conclusion drawn from specific cases that is applied more broadly.