What is one reason a trait might persist in a population despite the current selective regime?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an explanation of why a trait may continue to exist in a population even though the current environment is applying selective pressure against it. It requires an understanding of evolutionary biology and concepts like genetic drift, migration, and natural selection.
Answer
Traits might persist if they previously contributed to organism success.
One reason a trait might persist in a population despite the current selective regime is that it previously contributed to the success of organisms and continues to do so in certain contexts.
Answer for screen readers
One reason a trait might persist in a population despite the current selective regime is that it previously contributed to the success of organisms and continues to do so in certain contexts.
More Information
Traits that persist despite current selective pressures might still offer benefits in certain environments or could be genetically linked to other advantageous traits.
Tips
Be cautious not to assume that persistence of a trait always means it currently offers a direct advantage. It might also persist due to genetic linkage or because the environment has changed more rapidly than selective pressures can eliminate it.
Sources
- Exploring Our Fluid Earth - Evolution and Natural Selection - manoa.hawaii.edu
- The persistence and evolutionary consequences of vestigial traits - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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