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

Genetic variation from sexual reproduction can save this species from extinction as it increases the likelihood of some individuals having larger beaks, allowing them to adapt and survive by being better equipped to crack seeds, which becomes their primary food source after the invasion of the bug population.