Question

11 blue flying fish live in the upper layers of the ocean. blue flying fish have enlarged pectoral fins that enable them to glide for 400 meters above the ocean surface and appear to fly. which statement best describes how natural selection led to enlarged pectoral fins in blue flying fish? a fish were able to glide out of the ocean and into other bodies of water to mate with other species. b fish were able to live both on land and in the water as a result of their larger pectoral fins. c fish with enlarged pectoral fins were able to glide out of the ocean to escape predators, increasing their fitness. d fish changed their dna to express enlarged pectoral fins, changing the allele frequency of the population.

Explanation:

Natural selection occurs when traits that improve an organism's fitness (survival and reproduction success) become more common in a population over time. Option A is incorrect because gliding to mate with other species is not a relevant driver for this trait. Option B is wrong as blue flying fish do not live on land. Option D is incorrect because organisms cannot intentionally change their DNA; natural selection acts on existing genetic variation. Option C aligns with natural selection: fish with enlarged fins could escape predators, survive longer, and pass on the trait to offspring, increasing their fitness.

Answer:

C. Fish with enlarged pectoral fins were able to glide out of the ocean to escape predators, increasing their fitness.