The diagram above shows how the flower color gene results in a purple flower. A mutation occurs that causes the protein to make pink pigments instead of purple pigments. This type of flower relies on bees to fertilize and help the flower reproduce. Bees can see the purple and blue wavelengths really well and are very attracted to it but they do not see the pink and red wavelengths.

Question

The diagram above shows how the flower color gene results in a purple flower. A mutation occurs that causes the protein to make pink pigments instead of purple pigments. This type of flower relies on bees to fertilize and help the flower reproduce. Bees can see the purple and blue wavelengths really well and are very attracted to it but they do not see the pink and red wavelengths.

Do you think this mutation will be beneficial, harmful, or neutral for this plant's reproduction?
(1 point)
• Beneficial
• Neutral
• Harmful

Answer 1

Harmful.

This mutation will likely be harmful for the plant's reproduction because bees are attracted to purple and blue wavelengths, not pink and red. Therefore, the mutation may decrease the likelihood of bees being attracted to the flower for pollination, ultimately reducing the plant's ability to reproduce.