Question

a population of guppies live in a stream. the male guppies exhibit a wide range of colors and patterns: some males are brightly colored, while others are more plainly colored. which of the following best describes a biotic factor that could lead to adaptation by natural selection in the guppy population? choose 1 answer: a heavy rainfall that causes water in the stream to become muddy, reducing the guppies’ visibility b increased water temperatures, which can affect the guppies’ swimming speed c female guppies preferring to mate with brightly colored males

Explanation:

To solve this, we first recall that a biotic factor is a living or once - living component of an ecosystem. Option A (heavy rainfall) and Option B (water temperature) are abiotic factors (non - living components). Option C involves female guppies (a living component) and their mating preferences. This mating preference can lead to natural selection, as brightly colored males will have more opportunities to reproduce, and over time, the trait of bright coloration may become more prevalent in the population.

Answer:

C. female guppies preferring to mate with brightly colored males