Which of the following procedures was most likely followed to determine the change in beak size in a population of finches over time?

• A. Measuring the beak length and depth of individual finches in the population across multiple generations
• B. Counting the total number of finches present on the island each year
• C. Observing the types of seeds available on the island without measuring finch traits
• D. Recording the migration patterns of finches to and from the island

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question. The problem is asking about the procedure most likely used to determine the change in beak size in a population of finches over time. This involves identifying the method that directly measures changes in a specific trait (beak size) across generations.
2. Step 2: Analyze the options. The first option involves measuring the beak length and depth of individual finches across multiple generations. This directly relates to tracking changes in beak size over time, which is the focus of the question.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the other options. Counting the total number of finches present on the island each year does not provide information about beak size, as it focuses on population size rather than individual traits. Observing the types of seeds available on the island without measuring finch traits only provides environmental context but does not measure changes in beak size. Recording migration patterns of finches to and from the island also does not address changes in beak size.
4. Step 4: Identify the most relevant procedure. Measuring the beak length and depth of individual finches across multiple generations is the only option that directly tracks changes in the specific trait (beak size) over time.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct procedure involves measuring the beak length and depth of individual finches in the population across multiple generations, as this method provides the necessary data to determine changes in beak size over time.