Lamarckism cannot explain

Options

A. webbed toes in aquatic birds
B. weak muscles in the son of a wrestler
C. long narrow and limbless body of snakes
D. heterophylly

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Lamarckism**: Lamarckism is a biological theory proposed by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, which suggests that organisms can pass on characteristics acquired during their lifetime to their offspring. This is known as the "inheritance of acquired characteristics."

2. **Examples of Lamarckism**: One common example often cited is the adaptation of aquatic birds, which develop webbed feet (WAPTOY) as they adapt to their environment. According to Lamarck, these acquired traits would be inherited by their offspring.

3. **Limitations of Lamarckism**: A significant limitation of Lamarckism is its inability to explain certain phenomena, such as why the son of a wrestler does not inherit the muscular build of his father. According to Lamarck's theory, the acquired characteristics (like muscle strength) should be passed down to the next generation, but this is not observed in reality.

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the statement "weak muscle in the son of a wrestler" cannot be explained by Lamarckism, as it demonstrates that not all acquired traits are inherited. This highlights a fundamental flaw in Lamarck's theory, as it does not account for the genetic basis of traits.

5. **Correct Answer**: The correct answer to the question "Lamarckism cannot explain" is the weak muscle in the son of a wrestler.

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