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What Role Does Genetic Variation Play in Natural Selection?

Genetic variation plays a super important role in natural selection! Here’s why:

  1. Diversity is Important: Every living thing has its own set of genes. This genetic variation leads to different traits. For example, some animals might run faster, while others are better at hiding from danger.

  2. Survival of the Strongest: When the environment changes, traits that help an organism survive and have babies become more common. For instance, in a cold place, animals with thick fur are more likely to survive compared to those with thin fur.

  3. Reproduction is Key: Organisms with traits that fit their environment will have more babies. Over time, these helpful traits spread among the group. If a trait helps an animal survive, it’s likely to be passed down to its young.

  4. Example Time: Let’s look at peppered moths. During the Industrial Revolution, darker moths did better in dirty areas, leading to more dark moths over time. This shows how genetic variation and natural selection work together.

In short, without genetic variation, natural selection wouldn't have what it needs to shape groups of living things as time goes on!

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What Role Does Genetic Variation Play in Natural Selection?

Genetic variation plays a super important role in natural selection! Here’s why:

  1. Diversity is Important: Every living thing has its own set of genes. This genetic variation leads to different traits. For example, some animals might run faster, while others are better at hiding from danger.

  2. Survival of the Strongest: When the environment changes, traits that help an organism survive and have babies become more common. For instance, in a cold place, animals with thick fur are more likely to survive compared to those with thin fur.

  3. Reproduction is Key: Organisms with traits that fit their environment will have more babies. Over time, these helpful traits spread among the group. If a trait helps an animal survive, it’s likely to be passed down to its young.

  4. Example Time: Let’s look at peppered moths. During the Industrial Revolution, darker moths did better in dirty areas, leading to more dark moths over time. This shows how genetic variation and natural selection work together.

In short, without genetic variation, natural selection wouldn't have what it needs to shape groups of living things as time goes on!

Related articles