Which of the following best describes directional selection in the context of natural selection and evolution?

• A. It favors individuals at both extremes of a trait distribution.
• B. It favors individuals with traits that are disadvantageous.
• C. It favors individuals with average traits, reducing variation.
• D. It favors individuals at one extreme of a trait distribution.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is a process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring. It is a key mechanism of evolution.
2. Identify the types of selection: There are three main types of natural selection - directional, stabilizing, and disruptive selection.
3. Define directional selection: Directional selection occurs when one extreme of a trait distribution is favored over the other, leading to a shift in the population's trait distribution over time.
4. Analyze the options: Compare each option with the definition of directional selection. Directional selection does not favor both extremes (disruptive selection) or average traits (stabilizing selection).
5. Conclude with the correct description: Directional selection favors individuals at one extreme of a trait distribution, leading to a change in the population's traits in that direction over time.