Question

Considering the likely selective pressure of predation on the population below, which of the following outcomes would you expect?

• A. The percentage of dark mice in the population will increase.
• B. The percentage of white mice in the population will increase.
• C. The ratio would change randomly, and cannot be predicted.
• D. The ratio of mice would remain the same.

Answer 1

The correct option is A The percentage of dark mice in the population will increase.

The white mice would become easy prey (against the dark background) for the predators, while the dark mice tend to be safer in this environment. Thus, while the white mice get preyed upon, the dark mice have a better chance of survival and reproduction and hence, gradually increase in number.