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Using the information in the table, identify the beak shape (depth and length) expected in a Galapagos finch where BMP4 and CaM were both highly expressed - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 5
Using the information in the table, identify the beak shape (depth and length) expected in a Galapagos finch where BMP4 and CaM were both highly expressed. Another ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using the information in the table, identify the beak shape (depth and length) expected in a Galapagos finch where BMP4 and CaM were both highly expressed - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 5 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Using the information in the table, identify the beak shape (depth and length) expected in a Galapagos finch where BMP4 and CaM were both highly expressed.
Answer
The beak shape of a Galapagos finch where BMP4 and CaM are both highly expressed is expected to be 'deep and short'. This conclusion is derived from the provided table, which indicates that high expression of BMP4 corresponds to a deep beak and the low expression of CaM, which does not affect this particular expression.
Step 2
Using your knowledge and the information above, explain what would happen to beak shape (depth and length) if the Gremlin gene also had an effect on the cells of the beak.
Answer
If the Gremlin gene inhibits the expression of BMP4 in the cells of the beak, one would expect a reduction in BMP4 activity. Since BMP4 is associated with a deep beak shape, its inhibition may lead to a phenotypical change towards a 'shallow and long' beak shape. This change occurs because the reduction in BMP4 expression would limit its role in promoting depth and altering the overall beak morphology.
Step 3
Explain why a mutation that affects the expression of the BMP4 gene can lead to rapid changes in the phenotypes of Galapagos finches.
Answer
A mutation affecting the expression of the BMP4 gene can lead to rapid changes in the phenotypes of Galapagos finches because BMP4 is a master gene that controls the development of various traits, including beak morphology. Since this gene influences multiple downstream genes and contributes to the overall developmental processes, variations in its expression can lead to significant changes in physical characteristics. These rapid changes may be driven by environmental pressures or selective breeding as different beak shapes might confer advantages for survival, resulting in observable evolutionary shifts in the population.