Many frog species inhabiting tropical rainforests have evolved green skin colour - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2002 - Paper 1
Question 14
Many frog species inhabiting tropical rainforests have evolved green skin colour.
It would be reasonable to conclude that the main selection pressure responsible for... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Many frog species inhabiting tropical rainforests have evolved green skin colour - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 14 - 2002 - Paper 1
Step 1
predation.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Predation is a significant evolutionary pressure faced by many species, including frogs. In tropical rainforests, green skin colour provides camouflage against the lush greenery, reducing visibility to predators. This adaptation enhances survival chances and reproductive success, making predation the most reasonable selection pressure for the evolution of this trait.
Step 2
climate.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
While climate can influence species adaptation, it does not directly drive the specific evolution of skin colour. The green skin could be more related to visual concealment rather than responses to climatic conditions.
Step 3
reproduction.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Reproduction plays a crucial role in evolutionary changes; however, the specific colouration is less likely to be driven primarily by reproductive factors. It's more about survival against predation than reproductive selection.
Step 4
infection by pathogens.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Infection by pathogens may inform colouration in some contexts, such as displaying health status, but it does not have the same direct impact on evolution as predation does in terms of camouflage.
