[Campbell Biology P.524] The text states that of the many offspring produced, 'only a fracti... | Practice Question

The text states that of the many offspring produced, 'only a fraction complete their development and leave offspring of their own.' Which of the following is not listed as a reason for the failure of the rest to survive or reproduce?

  • A: Being starved or eaten
  • B: Being diseased or unmated
  • C: Inability to tolerate physical conditions like salinity or temperature
  • D: Genetic mutation leading to sterility

Explanation

The text lists 'starved, eaten, diseased, unmated, or unable to tolerate physical conditions of the environment such as salinity or temperature' as reasons for offspring failure. Genetic mutation leading to sterility is not explicitly mentioned.