Bipedalism has many selective advantages. However, there is one disadvantage to walking on two feet: giving birth to an offspring with a large head through a small pelvic opening, which is necessitated by an upright posture, is very difficult. This situation results in a high percentage of deaths (for mother and child) during birth compared to primates. How do you explain the selection of a trait that is both positive and negative?

Bipedalism has many selective advantages. However, there is one disadvantage to walking on two feet: giving birth to an offspring with a large head through a small pelvic opening, which is necessitated by an upright posture, is very difficult. This situation results in a high percentage of deaths (for mother and child) during birth compared to primates. How do you explain the selection of a trait that is both positive and negative?

Concepts of Biology

1st Edition

ISBN:9781938168116

Author:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise

Publisher:Samantha Fowler, Rebecca Roush, James Wise

Chapter12: Diversity Of Life

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 15CTQ: Dolphins and fish have similar body shapes. Is this feature more likely a homologous or analogous...

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