Question

iii. open - ended response
answer the questions below. use additional paper if needed.

1. why do male peacock have brightly colored feathers?
2. some plants produce their seeds inside of prickly burs that easily attach to animals. why have these plants developed this trait?

Explanation:

1. Male peacocks have highly - colored feathers mainly for sexual selection. The bright and elaborate plumage is used to attract female peacocks during the mating season. Females are more likely to choose males with more vibrant and well - formed feathers as they may indicate good health and genetic quality.
2. Plants that produce seeds inside of prickly burs that attach to animals have evolved this trait for seed dispersal. When the burs attach to animals, they are carried over long distances. Once the animal moves or grooms itself, the seeds are dropped in new locations, allowing the plant to spread to new habitats and increase its chances of survival and reproduction.

Answer:

1. For sexual selection to attract females.
2. For seed dispersal to new habitats.