Biology · Oct / Nov 2019 · Paper 12 · Question 38

Elephants are hunted by poachers for their tusks, which are a source of ivory. In 1930, in a National Park, 1% of the elephants were born without any tusks. Lack of tusks was the result of a gene mutation. Currently, in the same area, 15% of the females and 9% of the males do not have tusks. Which statements can explain this increase in the number of tuskless elephants? 1 Selection against tusked elephants is occurring. 2 Tuskless elephants are less likely to be killed by poachers. 3 Tuskless elephants reproduce and pass the allele to their offspring.

1. A1, 2 and 3
2. B1 and 2 only
3. C1 only
4. D2 and 3 only

As printed in the paper