Environment Shapes Traits Practice Test

A plant species grows in two habitats. Habitat W is windy and dry; Habitat S is sheltered and moist. In Habitat W, plants with waxy leaves produced 40 seeds per plant on average, while plants with thin leaves produced 15. In Habitat S, plants with thin leaves produced 38 seeds per plant, while plants with waxy leaves produced 20. Which explanation shows how environmental conditions affect which trait is advantageous, using the evidence?

A scientist studies the same species of lizard on two islands. Island R has many hawks (predators) and rocky ground. Island L has few hawks and lots of leafy plants. After marking 200 lizards of each type on each island, the scientist finds:

• Island R: 70% of lizards with long legs survived 3 months; 35% of lizards with short legs survived.
• Island L: 60% of lizards with short legs survived 3 months; 40% of lizards with long legs survived. Which claim about environment and traits is incorrect?