Select the correct statemenet from the following

Options

A. Mutations are random and directional
B. Darwinian variations are small and directionless
C. Fitness is the end result of the ability to adapt and gets selected by nature
D. All mammals except whales and camels have seven cervical vertebrae

Answer

To solve the question "Select the correct statement from the following," we will analyze each of the provided statements one by one.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Analyze the First Statement: "Mutations are random and directional."**
- **Explanation:** Mutations are generally considered random changes in the DNA sequence. They occur without any specific direction or purpose. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.

2. **Analyze the Second Statement: "Darwinian variations are small and directionless."**
- **Explanation:** Darwinian variations refer to the variations that occur within a species due to genetic mutations and environmental factors. While these variations can be small, they are not necessarily directionless as they can lead to adaptations that enhance survival. Thus, this statement is also incorrect.

3. **Analyze the Third Statement: "Fitness is the end result of ability to adapt and get selected by nature."**
- **Explanation:** This statement is correct. Fitness in evolutionary biology refers to an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment. The ability to adapt to changing conditions and being selected by nature (natural selection) contributes to an organism's fitness.

4. **Analyze the Fourth Statement: "For all mammals except whales and camels have several cervical vertebrae."**
- **Explanation:** This statement is misleading. While most mammals have multiple cervical vertebrae, whales and camels are exceptions in terms of their adaptations. Whales have a reduced number of cervical vertebrae, and camels have a unique structure. Thus, this statement is incorrect.

### Conclusion:
The correct statement is the third one: "Fitness is the end result of ability to adapt and get selected by nature."