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The extinct woolly mammoth, Mammuthus primigenius, was closely related and similar in size to present-day elephants - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 12 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 12
The extinct woolly mammoth, Mammuthus primigenius, was closely related and similar in size to present-day elephants. It was herbivorous and highly adapted to very co... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The extinct woolly mammoth, Mammuthus primigenius, was closely related and similar in size to present-day elephants - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 12 - 2014 - Paper 1
Step 1
Define the term ‘selection pressure’
Answer
Selection pressure refers to environmental factors that favor certain traits in individuals within a population, thereby influencing the survival and reproduction of those individuals. In essence, it is a force that can lead to changes in the genetic makeup of a population over time, as less favorable traits may be selected against, resulting in a higher prevalence of advantageous traits.
Step 2
Provide an example of a selection pressure on woolly mammoths
Answer
An example of selection pressure on woolly mammoths is the cold climate in which they lived. These mammals had adaptations such as a thick fur coat and a layer of fat to retain heat. However, as the climate changed and became warmer, individuals that could not adapt to this new environment may not have survived, leading to natural selection favoring those woolly mammoths with traits that allowed them to cope with the colder conditions.