Name and define the three different types of natural selection.

• Directional Selection: This type of natural selection occurs when one extreme phenotype is favored over others, leading to a shift in the population's traits in one direction.
• Stabilizing Selection: Stabilizing selection favors intermediate phenotypes and reduces variation in a trait, leading to a decrease in extremes.
• Disruptive Selection: Disruptive selection favors extreme phenotypes over intermediate ones, which can lead to the emergence of two or more distinct forms within a population.

Natural selection is a key mechanism of evolution, and it can occur in different ways. Here are the three main types:

Directional Selection

This type occurs when one extreme phenotype is favored. As a result, the traits of the population shift in a specific direction. For example, if larger size provides an advantage in survival, over time, the population may evolve to have more individuals with larger sizes.

Stabilizing Selection

Stabilizing selection works by favoring intermediate phenotypes, which reduces variation in a trait. This means that individuals with traits that are too extreme may be less likely to survive. An example is human birth weight, where babies of average weight have higher survival rates compared to those who are very small or very large.

Disruptive Selection

In disruptive selection, extreme phenotypes are favored over intermediate ones. This can lead to the development of two or more distinct forms within a population. For instance, in a habitat where both very small and very large seeds are available, birds with either very small or very large beaks may thrive, while those with medium-sized beaks struggle.

Each type of natural selection plays a crucial role in shaping the diversity of life on Earth.