The resurrection fern (Pleopeltis polypodioides) grows on the bark of southern live oak trees (Quercus virginiana). Resurrection ferns that grow on the underside of branches receive less water than those growing on the topside and, therefore, have a fitness of only 0.28. How many of these ferns will be non-reproducing?

Select one:

a. 52%

b. 72%

c. 80%

d. 28%

Question

Krish Washington

Biology

22 October, 21:03

The resurrection fern (Pleopeltis polypodioides) grows on the bark of southern live oak trees (Quercus virginiana). Resurrection ferns that grow on the underside of branches receive less water than those growing on the topside and, therefore, have a fitness of only 0.28. How many of these ferns will be non-reproducing?

Select one:

a. 52%

b. 72%

c. 80%

d. 28%

+2

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Franklin Johnston · Answer 1

Option B

Explanation:

In biology, fitness refers to the ability of an organism to survive, reproduce, mate and support evolution through gene transfer. A fitness of 0.28 signifies that only 28 percent of a given population are fit physically and able to reproduce while the remaining 72 % are unable to mate and hence cannot reproduce and contribute towards gene flow and evolution.

Hence, option B is correct