Two genera of birds exist side-by-side on an island. Genus A is characterized by a few species of similar, genetic material. Genus B contains different species of birds with a wide variety of genetic traits. After a volcanic explosion changes the ecosystem, which genus has the highest probability of surviving the disaster?

A. Genus A, which contains well adapted species.

B. Genus B, which has greater genetic diversity and is more likely to have traits that confer an advantage in the new environment.

C. Genus A, which can serve as ancestors for the new species.

D. Genus B, because these species likely evolved from Genus A species in the past.

B. Genus B, which has greater genetic diversity and is more likely to have traits that confer an advantage in the new environment.

Explanation:

Genus A and Genus B both inhabit the same island. However, species in genus B are more diverse as the organisms show a wide variety of genetic traits.

Volcanic eruption in their habitat will change the ecosystem. Many birds will not be able to survive because they will not be able to adapt to the changed ecosystem. In such a situation, genus B will have an advantage because its species show enough genetic diversity to adapt to the new environment. Genus A is characterized by similar genetic composition of species so all of them will face the same challenges. Hence, genus B has highest probability of surviving the disaster.