Which pattern of natural selection favors individuals with intermediate phenotypes and reduces variation in a population?

• A. Directional selection
• B. Stabilizing selection
• C. Balancing selection
• D. Disruptive selection

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of natural selection: Natural selection is a process where individuals with certain traits are more likely to survive and reproduce. Different patterns of natural selection affect populations in distinct ways.
2. Define stabilizing selection: Stabilizing selection is a type of natural selection that favors individuals with intermediate phenotypes, reducing variation in the population by selecting against extreme traits.
3. Compare stabilizing selection to other types: Directional selection favors one extreme phenotype, disruptive selection favors both extreme phenotypes, and balancing selection maintains genetic diversity without favoring a specific phenotype.
4. Identify the key characteristic of stabilizing selection: It reduces variation by favoring the average phenotype and selecting against extremes, leading to a more uniform population.
5. Conclude that stabilizing selection is the correct answer because it matches the description of favoring intermediate phenotypes and reducing variation in the population.