Survival Strategies in the Valley of Fire Through the Lens of Rock Pocket Mice

The video explores the Valley of Fire in New Mexico, where volcanic eruptions have created a unique landscape. It focuses on the rock pocket mouse, which has adapted to the dark lava rocks through a genetic mutation that changes its fur color. This adaptation provides a survival advantage against predators. The video explains how mutations occur and spread in populations, using the pocket mouse as a case study to illustrate evolution in action.

What natural feature is the Valley of Fire known for?

• Snow-capped mountains

• Black volcanic rocks

• Golden deserts

• Lush forests

How does the rock pocket mouse's fur color affect its survival?

• It makes them more attractive to mates

• It helps them find food

• It provides camouflage from predators

• It helps them regulate body temperature

What drives the change in fur color in rock pocket mice?

• Climate change

• Predator pressure

• Competition with other species

• Availability of food

What is a mutation in genetic terms?

• A deliberate change in DNA

• A random and rare event

• A common occurrence in all species

• A change that always benefits the organism

Which gene is responsible for the dark fur in rock pocket mice?

• BRCA1

• TP53

• MC1R

• CFTR

How many chemical letters differ between dark and light mice in the MC1R gene?

• Eight

• Six

• Four

• Two

What advantage does the dark fur provide to the mice on lava rocks?

• Increased speed

• Enhanced camouflage

• Improved mating success

• Better heat absorption

How quickly can a 5% advantage in survival turn a population predominantly dark?

• 10 years

• 1,000 years

• 100 years

• 500 years

What percentage of the population will be dark if the dark color gives a 10% advantage?

• 100%

• 95%

• 75%

• 50%

What does the rapid spread of advantageous mutations demonstrate?

• The randomness of genetic changes

• The power of natural selection

• The slow pace of evolution

• The stability of species over time