A species of bird has slight variations in its beak size and shape. Some individuals with bigger beaks are better at cracking seeds. Some individuals with narrower beaks are better at hunting for bugs. An invasive species is introduced that hunts all of the bug population, wiping out that food source for the birds, so all they are left with is seeds.

Question

In one to two sentences, explain how genetic variation from sexual reproduction can save this species from extinction.

Answer 1

Sexual reproduction allows for genetic variation, which can help the species adapt to the new environment by selecting for individuals with bigger beaks that are better at cracking seeds, thus increasing the species' chances of survival.