Refer to the Figure Shown

question 55

Multiple Choice

Refer to the figure shown.
What is the best explanation for the differences, as shown in the figure, in the icefish globin genes?

• A) Redundant gene sequences have been selected against and removed over time.
• B) The α-globin gene is nonfunctional; the β-globin gene has been moved to another chromosome but is functional.
• C) The α-globin gene is nonfunctional; the β-globin gene has been moved to another chromosome and is nonfunctional.
• D) Deletions have rendered the α-globin gene nonfunctional and the β-globin gene has been removed.

---

Definitions:

San Andreas Fault

A major geological fault in California known for producing significant earthquakes, marking the boundary between the Pacific and North American tectonic plates.

Northridge Earthquake

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck the Los Angeles area of California, USA, on January 17, 1994.

Divergent Plate Boundary

A region where two tectonic plates move away from each other, leading to the creation of new crust as magma rises to the surface.

Offset Stream Channel

A stream or river channel that has been shifted laterally due to tectonic movement, creating a visible displacement along a fault line.