Consider the degree of copper tolerance in grass plants on or near ancient mine

Question

Consider the degree of copper tolerance in grass plants on or near ancient mine sites in the figure. complete the sentences. Individuals with tolerant alleles have ____ growth rates on unpolluted soil and _______ growth rates on mined soils. Therefore, we would expect copper tolerance to be ________ % on mine sites and _________ % on unpolluted sites if natural selection is acting alone. However, index of copper tolerance _______ decreases from the downwind side of the mine. This is example where _______ constrains selection.

Explanation / Answer

Individuals with tolerant alleles have increased growth rates on unpolluted soil and decreased growth rates on mined soils.

Therefore, we would expect copper tolerance to be 100% on mine sites and 0% on unpolluted sites if natural selection is acting alone.

However, index of copper tolerance gradually decreases from the downwind side of the mine.

This is an example where genetic drift constrains selection.

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