Which of the Following is True of Evolutionary Change in a Phenotype

Question

Which of the following is true of evolutionary change in a phenotype?
A) It results from change in the environment only.
B) It reflects change in the underlying genetic composition of a population.
C) It cannot be passed from parent to offspring.
D) Acquired phenotypic traits cause an underlying genetic change.

Accepted Answer

Evolutionary change in a phenotype reflects change in the underlying genetic composition of a population. This can occur through various mechanisms such as natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow. While changes in the environment can potentially drive selection pressure, it is ultimately the genetic variation within a population that allows for adaptation to new environmental conditions. Phenotypic traits acquired during an individual's lifetime, such as from environmental influences, are not typically passed on to offspring and therefore cannot cause an underlying genetic change.