Which of the following is an example of descent with modification?

• A. The development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria over several generations
• B. A single bacterium surviving exposure to an antibiotic
• C. A plant wilting due to lack of water
• D. An animal learning a new behavior during its lifetime

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'descent with modification': This term refers to the process by which organisms pass on traits to their offspring, with slight changes (modifications) occurring over generations. These changes can lead to adaptations that improve survival and reproduction in a given environment.
2. Analyze the first option: 'The development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria over several generations.' This describes a population of bacteria evolving over time, where genetic mutations that confer resistance to antibiotics are passed on to subsequent generations. This is a clear example of descent with modification.
3. Evaluate the second option: 'A single bacterium surviving exposure to an antibiotic.' This describes an individual bacterium's survival, not a population-level change over generations. Therefore, it is not an example of descent with modification.
4. Consider the third option: 'A plant wilting due to lack of water.' This is a physiological response to environmental stress and does not involve genetic changes passed to offspring. Thus, it is not an example of descent with modification.
5. Review the fourth option: 'An animal learning a new behavior during its lifetime.' Learned behaviors are acquired during an individual's life and are not inherited genetically. Therefore, this is not an example of descent with modification.