4) In a certain population, disruptive selection is occurring. In this population, which is most likely to survive?

Question

• organisms with average traits
• organisms with extreme traits
• organisms that sexually select
• organisms that are small

Answer 1

Organisms with extreme traits are most likely to survive in a population experiencing disruptive selection. This is because disruptive selection favors individuals at both ends of the trait spectrum, rather than those with average traits. By having extreme traits, these individuals are better suited to thrive in their environment and outcompete others with less extreme traits.