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Difficulty: EasyEvolution and Adaptation

Physical traits acquired by an animal during its individual lifetime, such as increased muscle mass from physical exercise, are directly passed on to its offspring through genetic inheritance.

Answer: Answer

Answer

False (Acquired physical modifications developed during an individual's lifespan cannot be inherited by offspring because they do not alter germline DNA).
The statement is false because biological evolution relies on genetic variation present in germ cells. Physical changes acquired during an organism's life affect only somatic cells, leaving reproductive DNA unchanged, which prevents those modifications from being inherited by offspring.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the type of biological trait described in the statement.
Muscle mass built through exercise is a somatic (body cell) modification acquired during an individual's lifetime, not an inherited genetic mutation.
It is essential to distinguish between non-heritable somatic changes and heritable genetic characteristics.
2
Evaluate the mechanism of genetic inheritance and biological evolution.
Only alleles present in germ cells (sperm or egg) can be transmitted to the next generation, meaning acquired physical changes are not passed down.
To verify whether acquired phenotypic changes can be inherited by offspring.

Key Concept

Distinction between acquired somatic traits and heritable genetic variation in evolution
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Evolution and Adaptation

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