What are the different types of selection that can influence feather lengths in a population and how do they affect the feather length?
In biology, four types of selection can influence feather lengths in a certain population: disruptive selection increases variation, directional selection changes the mean feather length, stabilizing selection favors intermediate feather lengths, and balancing selection does not lead to an expected change.
Types of Selection and Feather Length Outcome
Disruptive Selection:
Disruptive Selection is typically associated with an increased variation in feather length. This form of selection favors individuals at both extremes of the phenotypic range, ultimately increasing the genetic diversity of the population.
Directional Selection:
Directional Selection is typically associated with a change in mean feather length. This form of selection favors individuals at one extreme of the phenotypic range, leading to a shift in population phenotype.
Stabilizing Selection:
Stabilizing Selection is typically associated with favoring the intermediate feather length. This form of selection favors individuals with the average phenotype, leading to a decrease in phenotypic variation and stabilizing the population around the mean.
Balancing Selection:
Balancing Selection does not lead to a noticeable change in the phenotype; thus, no significant change in feather length is expected. This form of selection maintains variation in a population.