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From the data it is possible to conclude that A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 20 - 2004 - Paper 1
Question 20
From the data it is possible to conclude that A. the frequency of the R$^8$ allele is greater than the frequency of the R$^8$ allele in 1968. B. many generations aft... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:From the data it is possible to conclude that A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 20 - 2004 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. the frequency of the R$^8$ allele is greater than the frequency of the R$^8$ allele in 1968.
Answer
While this statement proposes a comparison, conclusions about allele frequencies should be based on observed data. Without direct evidence from the data provided, we cannot definitively state that the R allele's frequency surpasses that of R in 1968.
Step 2
B. many generations after the removal of DDT the R$^8$ allele would disappear from the population.
Answer
The assertion lacks substantiation, as the retention of an allele in a population depends on various factors, including its fitness relative to other alleles. It's plausible for R to persist despite DDT removal, influenced by evolutionary pressures.
Step 3
C. after removal of DDT from the environment in 1968, having the R$^8$R$^8$ genotype reduces the chance of survival.
Answer
This statement is supported by evidence that the RR genotype may have detrimental effects on survival post-DDT. Given that R is more resilient in the presence of the insecticide, its removal would likely favor variants without resistant alleles.
Step 4
D. between 1967 and 1968 in the presence of DDT in the environment, the mosquitoes with the R$^8$R$^8$ genotype are the most likely to survive.
Answer
In light of the selective pressure that DDT poses, this statement is plausible. The RR genotype likely conferred resistance, making those mosquitoes better equipped to survive in an environment laden with DDT.