The Same Gene That Causes Various Coat Patterns in Wild

question 47

Multiple Choice

The same gene that causes various coat patterns in wild and domesticated cats also causes a cross-eyed condition in these cats, the cross-eyed condition being slightly maladaptive. In a hypothetical environment, the coat pattern that is associated with crossed eyes is highly adaptive, with the result that both the coat pattern and the cross-eyed condition increase in a feline population over time. Which statement is supported by these observations?

• A) Evolution is progressive and tends toward a more perfect population.
• B) Phenotype is often the result of compromise.
• C) Natural selection reduces the frequency of maladaptive genes in populations over the course of time.
• D) Polygenic inheritance is generally maladaptive, and should become less common in future generations.
• E) In all environments, coat pattern is a more important survival factor than is eye-muscle tone.

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Definitions:

Aerobic Respiration

A metabolic process that uses oxygen to convert glucose or other nutrients into energy (ATP), releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

Athletic Performance

The level at which an individual or athlete performs in physical competitions, influenced by a combination of physical, mental, and technical factors.

Muscle Fibers

The long, slender cells that make up muscles, capable of contracting to produce movement.

Red Fibers

Muscle fibers rich in myoglobin and mitochondria, known for their endurance and ability to sustain long periods of activity without fatigue.