Question

about 12,000 years ago, a mass extinction event occurred and 75% of the worlds large mammal species were eliminated. while a small number of cheetahs managed to survive and restore the worlds population of cheetahs, this event caused an extreme reduction of the cheetahs genetic diversity. based on the principles of natural selection, which of the following is a consequence of their reduced genetic diversity? multiple choice cheetahs are unable to effectively compete with each other for resources. cheetahs within the same population do not vary in their reproductive success. cheetahs have very little heritable variation, which will make it difficult for them to adapt as the environment changes. cheetahs have never fully adapted to the current environment.

Explanation:

Genetic diversity provides the raw - material for natural selection. With reduced genetic diversity, cheetahs have less heritable variation. This lack of variation makes it hard for them to adapt to environmental changes as there are fewer traits available for natural selection to act upon.

Answer:

Cheetahs have very little heritable variation, which will make it difficult for them to adapt as the environment changes.