Name_________________________________________Date____________________Per______
Using Fruit Loops to Model Types of Natural Selection
In this investigation you will use pieces of Fruit Loops cereal to model a population of organisms. Like all populations, these "organisms" exhibit natural variation. The main variation you will be studying is color. The color trait in Fruit Loops is polygenic, and is controlled by three genes (red, yellow, and blue). After establishing your initial population, you will be presented with a series of different environmental scenarios that will cause your population to change as a result of natural selection.
You will be given a population of organisms (a bag of cereal). DO NOT EAT THE SAMPLES. Observe the organisms and answer the pre-lab questions.
Pre-lab Questions
What is the most obvious variation that is visible in your Fruit Loop population? _________________________
Look at the Fruit Loops. Do you think this variation is caused by a polygenic or single gene trait? Explain.
Three color variations (red, yellow, and blue) exist on their own. Green, orange, and purple, however, are made when two different color Fruit loops mate! Fill in the blanks on the mating combinations that make the following colors. (You will need this information!!)
_________________ + _________________ = Green
_________________ + _________________ = Orange
_________________ + _________________ = Purple
For each type of natural selection we have learned, write what happens to the population. (Take a look back at your notes if you don’t remember!)
Type of Natural Selection
How it changes a population/which trait is favored
Stabilizing
Directional
Disruptive
