What does the good genes hypothesis explain in the context of evolution and natural selection?

• A. It explains the process by which organisms adapt to their environment over time.
• B. It explains how certain traits can increase an individual's reproductive success by indicating genetic quality.
• C. It explains how genetic mutations can lead to the development of new species.
• D. It explains the role of genetic drift in the evolution of populations.

Answer: (B)

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1. The good genes hypothesis is a concept in evolutionary biology that suggests certain traits are favored because they indicate an individual's genetic quality.
2. These traits are often related to physical characteristics or behaviors that are attractive to potential mates, thereby increasing reproductive success.
3. The hypothesis posits that individuals with these traits are more likely to pass on their genes to the next generation, as they are chosen more frequently as mates.
4. This process is a form of sexual selection, where traits that are perceived as indicators of good genes become more common in the population over time.
5. The good genes hypothesis helps explain how certain traits can become prevalent in a population due to their association with genetic fitness and reproductive advantage.