Which process has most contributed to the survival of ecosystems through Earth's environmental changes?

• A. Extinction events
• B. Artificial selection
• C. Genetic drift
• D. Natural selection

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is the process by which organisms with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those advantageous traits to the next generation.
2. Recognize the role of natural selection in ecosystems: Natural selection allows populations to adapt to changing environmental conditions over time, ensuring the survival of species and maintaining ecosystem stability.
3. Compare natural selection to other processes: Extinction events eliminate species, artificial selection is human-driven and not natural, and genetic drift is random and less likely to consistently contribute to ecosystem survival. Natural selection is the most effective process for adapting to environmental changes.
4. Consider examples of natural selection in action: For instance, the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria or the evolution of camouflage in prey species are examples of how natural selection helps organisms survive environmental challenges.
5. Conclude why natural selection is the correct answer: Natural selection continuously shapes populations to adapt to environmental changes, ensuring the survival and resilience of ecosystems over time.