Many arctic organisms have adapted to their environment by changing their fur color from brown to white when there is snow on the ground. The change in fur color is triggered by the shorter daylight hours from fall into winter. These arctic areas are now having fewer months with snow on the ground. How could natural selection play a role in the survival of these organisms?

Question

Many arctic organisms have adapted to their environment by changing their fur color from brown to white when there is snow on the ground. The change in fur color is triggered by the shorter daylight hours from fall into winter. These arctic areas are now having fewer months with snow on the ground. How could natural selection play a role in the survival of these organisms?

Arctic organisms that keep their white feathers or fur later in the spring will have a better chance of survival since they will be better camouflaged as they live in the snowbanks.

Arctic organisms that can change their color later in the fall and earlier in the spring have a better chance for surviving since they will be better camouflaged when there is no snow.

Arctic organisms that do not change their feather/fur colors in the winter will have a better chance of survival since there are fewer months with snow on the ground.

Arctic organisms that can stay white throughout the year will have a better chance of survival since they can live in the snow in the winter, and then migrate to other areas in the summer.

Answer 1

Overall, natural selection will favor individuals who can adapt to the changing environment by being able to change their fur or feather color at the appropriate times in order to blend in with their surroundings and avoid predators. Those that are better camouflaged will have a higher chance of survival and passing on their genes to future generations. Ultimately, this adaptation will help ensure the survival of these arctic organisms in a changing climate.