Reproductive Strategies Unit Test

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Question
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.

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

(2 points)

Short Answer Rubric (2 points)
Points Awarded Criteria
2
The answer is very clear.

The answer is fully supported by details.

There may be a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.

1
The answer is somewhat clear.

Details are weak or not related.

There are some errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.

0
The question is not answered.



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2 points: Genetic variation from sexual reproduction allows for a wider range of traits to be passed down to offspring. This means that some individuals may have variations in their beaks that allow them to better adapt to the new food source of seeds, potentially saving the species from extinction.