Question

which of the following is most likely true about the snail population described above? choose 1 answer: a snails with light - colored shells are more common in the population. b snails with dark - colored shells are more likely to reproduce. c snails with dark - colored shells are less likely to survive.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option based on evolutionary principles (natural selection):

• Option A: Without prior info on the environment (e.g., if the environment is light or dark), we can’t assume light - colored shells are more common. So this is not necessarily true.
• Option B: If dark - colored shells provide an advantage (e.g., camouflage in a dark - colored environment), snails with dark - colored shells would be more likely to survive and reproduce (as they avoid predators better). This aligns with natural selection.
• Option C: If dark - colored shells were a disadvantage, they’d be less likely to survive, but this contradicts the logic of natural selection (traits that help survival are favored). So this is incorrect.

Answer:

B. Snails with dark - colored shells are more likely to reproduce.