A population of insects develops resistance to a pesticide over several generations. What is this an example of?

• A. Variation
• B. Adaptation
• C. Isolation
• D. Biodiversity

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of adaptation: Adaptation refers to the process by which organisms develop traits that enhance their survival and reproduction in a specific environment. In this case, the insects are developing resistance to the pesticide, which is a survival trait.
2. Recognize the role of natural selection: Over generations, insects with genetic variations that confer resistance to the pesticide are more likely to survive and reproduce. This leads to an increase in the frequency of the resistance trait in the population.
3. Differentiate adaptation from variation: Variation refers to the genetic differences within a population. While variation is necessary for adaptation to occur, adaptation specifically involves the development of traits that improve survival and reproduction.
4. Exclude other options: Isolation refers to the separation of populations, which can lead to speciation, but it is not relevant to the development of pesticide resistance. Biodiversity refers to the variety of life forms in an ecosystem, which is unrelated to the specific process of adaptation in this context.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is adaptation: The development of pesticide resistance in the insect population is an example of adaptation, as it involves the evolution of a trait that enhances survival in response to environmental pressures.