Question

Natural selection operates in different ways in nature. 
(a) (i) Identify the type of natural selection depicted in the graph above. 
 

Hint:

Directional selection shifts the population’s traits toward one extreme due to environmental pressures.

Answer 1

The graph depicts Directional Selection, which occurs when one extreme phenotype is favored over others due to environmental pressures. Key points: 
Definition: Directional selection shifts population traits toward one extreme, favoring individuals with advantageous traits. 
Example: During industrial melanism, darker moths had better camouflage in polluted environments, increasing survival and reproduction rates.
Impact: Over time, populations evolve, favoring traits that enhance adaptability to specific environments.
Directional selection contrasts with:
Stabilizing Selection: Maintains traits within a specific range. 
Disruptive Selection: Favors extreme phenotypes over intermediate ones.