A population of deer mice was introduced into a desert ecosystem. Being dark-colored, the deer mice stood out in the sand and we
re easy prey for predators. Over a few years, the color of the mice changed from dark brown to light brown. What role does natural selection play in this example? A.
The change of color camouflaged them, which helped them hunt better.
B.
The change of color enabled them to regulate their body temperature.
C.
The change of color allowed them to hide better from predators.
D.
The change of color made their bodies tolerant to the harsh desert sand.
E.
The change of color allowed them to deflect the excessive heat.
The answer is: C. The change of color allowed them to hide better from predators.
For animals who live in the desert environment, light brown color would be more beneficial for them since it is similar with the color of the sand that covered that area. This would make it harder for the predators to spot them, especially the predators who rely on their day vision to hunt.
