Which of the following is essential in any model of natural selection? (A) High reproductive rates (B) Random selection of prey (C) A population of predators (D) Differences in the population - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 7 - 2014 - Paper 1

In any model of natural selection, the presence of variations or differences within a population is crucial. These differences can be in traits such as size, coloration, or behavior. Natural selection operates on these variations, as individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing those traits on to future generations. Hence, option (D) 'Differences in the population' is the correct choice.