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A storm destroys the tall shade trees in a forest. In the following days, increased sunlight reaches the forest’s floor. Although most individuals of light-intolerant plant populations (plants that can’t be in the sun) die, some individuals survive. Which of the following best explains this?
a.A trait that already existed in the population became favorable when the environment changed.
b.The loss of shade caused a mutation in some individuals.
c.Individuals that preferred the light outcompeted individuals that preferred shade.
d.Individuals that survived the loss of shade were healthier than the individuals that died.
a. A trait that already existed in the population became favorable when the environment changed.