Question

a male cardinals red color is an example of a trait affected by natural selection. the females of the species choose mates based on the vibrant colors of the males feathers. if females begin using different criteria than feather color when they choose mates, what would most likely happen to the color of the male cardinals over time?

increased variation in the shades of red because there is no advantage in one specific color

increased variation in the shades of red because the cardinals try different ways to impress the females

decreased variation in the shades of red over time because no form of the trait is advantageous

decreased variation in the shades of red after a single generation

Explanation:

If female cardinals no longer choose mates based on male feather - color, the color no longer provides a reproductive advantage. Traits without an advantage tend to become less distinct in terms of variation over time as there is no selection pressure for specific color forms.

Answer:

decreased variation in the shades of red over time because no form of the trait is advantageous