Is selection on deleterious mutations that act late in life
Is selection on deleterious mutations that act late in life (after reproduction) stronger or weaker when there is higher extrinsic mortality (predation)? Explain.
Solution
Extrensic hazards themselves reduce mortalty.So longevity would be reduced. Lower the level of extrinsic hazards, longer would be the longevity. High extrensic mortality selects for shorter life span, according to certain evolutionary theories.Stronger the rate of extrensic mortality, weaker will be the selection.Fewer individuals reach upto older ages, faster the individuals will senesce due to mutations and weaker will be the selection
So selection on deletrious mutation will be weaker, if there is higher extrensic mortality.
