A selection that acts to eliminate one extreme from an array of phenotypes is

Options

A. Disruptive
B. Directional
C. Stabilising
D. Coevolution

Answer

To solve the question "A selection that acts to eliminate one extreme from an array of phenotypes is", we need to analyze the different types of natural selection and their effects on phenotypes. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

### Step 1: Understand the Types of Selection
Natural selection can be categorized into three main types: disruptive selection, stabilizing selection, and directional selection. Each type has a distinct impact on phenotypic variation within a population.

### Step 2: Define Disruptive Selection
Disruptive selection, also known as centrifugal selection, favors individuals at both extremes of the phenotypic spectrum while eliminating those with average phenotypes. This can lead to the formation of two distinct subpopulations.

### Step 3: Define Stabilizing Selection
Stabilizing selection, or centripetal selection, operates in stable environments and favors the average phenotype. It eliminates individuals at both extremes, maintaining phenotypic stability over generations.

### Step 4: Define Directional Selection
Directional selection occurs when environmental changes favor one extreme phenotype over others. This results in the gradual elimination of individuals at one end of the phenotypic distribution, leading to a shift in the population's traits.

### Step 5: Analyze the Question
The question specifically asks for a selection that eliminates one extreme from an array of phenotypes. Based on our definitions:
- Disruptive selection eliminates the average phenotype, not one extreme.
- Stabilizing selection eliminates both extremes, favoring the average.
- Directional selection eliminates one extreme phenotype, favoring the other extreme.

### Step 6: Conclusion
The correct answer to the question is **Directional Selection**, as it is the type of selection that acts to eliminate one extreme from an array of phenotypes.

### Final Answer
**Directional Selection**

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