Which statement best describes how artificial selection differs from natural selection?

• A. Artificial selection occurs only in wild populations, whereas natural selection occurs only in domesticated populations.
• B. Artificial selection always increases genetic diversity in a population, whereas natural selection always decreases genetic diversity.
• C. Artificial selection is driven by human choice of which individuals reproduce, whereas natural selection is driven by differential survival and reproduction due to environmental pressures.
• D. Artificial selection results in adaptations that improve fitness in the natural environment, whereas natural selection produces traits that are harmful to fitness.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of artificial selection and natural selection. Artificial selection is a process where humans intentionally choose which individuals reproduce based on desired traits. Natural selection is a process where environmental pressures determine which individuals survive and reproduce based on their fitness.
2. Step 2: Compare the driving forces behind each type of selection. Artificial selection is driven by human choice, while natural selection is driven by environmental factors affecting survival and reproduction.
3. Step 3: Consider the outcomes of each selection process. Artificial selection often leads to traits favored by humans, which may or may not improve survival in the natural environment. Natural selection leads to traits that enhance an organism's fitness in its natural environment.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the statements given in the problem by matching them to the definitions and characteristics of artificial and natural selection.
5. Step 5: Identify the statement that correctly contrasts artificial selection and natural selection based on their mechanisms and driving forces, which is that artificial selection is driven by human choice of which individuals reproduce, whereas natural selection is driven by differential survival and reproduction due to environmental pressures.