Which of the following best explains the success of the white cattail in its environment?

• A. It is the only plant species present in the ecosystem, so it faces no competition.
• B. It can change its genetic makeup in response to environmental changes during its lifetime.
• C. It survives because it avoids all interactions with other organisms.
• D. It possesses traits that provide a selective advantage in its habitat, allowing it to survive and reproduce more effectively than other variants.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of natural selection: Organisms with traits that provide a selective advantage are more likely to survive and reproduce in their environment. These advantageous traits are passed on to the next generation.
2. Analyze the options provided: Evaluate each statement to determine whether it aligns with the principles of natural selection and ecological interactions.
3. Option 1: 'It is the only plant species present in the ecosystem, so it faces no competition.' This is unlikely because ecosystems typically have multiple species, and competition is a natural part of ecological dynamics.
4. Option 2: 'It can change its genetic makeup in response to environmental changes during its lifetime.' This is incorrect because individual organisms cannot alter their genetic makeup during their lifetime; genetic changes occur over generations through mutations and natural selection.
5. Option 3: 'It survives because it avoids all interactions with other organisms.' This is not accurate because organisms in ecosystems interact with others, whether through competition, symbiosis, or other relationships. The correct explanation is that the white cattail possesses traits that provide a selective advantage, allowing it to thrive in its habitat.