Answered

At multiple stages during the major evolutionary transitions individual replicators have given up their ability to reproduce
themselves
. For example, in the slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum cells that make up the stalk do not take part in producing
reproductive
spores. Or in the volvocine alga Volvox carteri cells fated to develop flagella as part of the somatic cell-line will never
take part in reproduction. What is the best explanation for why individual replicators would evolve into a role where they give up
their own
reproduction?
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a
Because the multicellular organism or structure requires these sacrifices in order to function.
b
с
Because there was no other choice in terms of the evolutionary path available to these replicators.
Because these replicators have their fitness significantly increased through inclusive fitness and kin selection beyond
what their individual direct reproduction could produce.
None of the above.



Answer :

GinnyAnswer
The best explanation for why individual replicators would evolve into a role where they give up their own reproduction is:

c. Because these replicators have their fitness significantly increased through inclusive fitness and kin selection beyond what their individual direct reproduction could produce.

Here's why this is the best explanation:

1. Inclusive fitness and kin selection play a crucial role in the evolution of altruistic behaviors where individuals sacrifice their own reproductive success to benefit others who share their genes.

2. By promoting the reproduction of closely related individuals who share similar genetic material, these altruistic behaviors can enhance the overall genetic success of the genes carried by the individual replicators.

3. In scenarios like those observed in Dictyostelium discoideum and Volvox carteri, where certain cells give up their ability to reproduce in favor of supporting the reproduction of others, the inclusive fitness gained through kin selection can outweigh the reproductive success that the individual cells would achieve on their own.

4. This evolutionary strategy can lead to the formation of complex multicellular organisms or structures where different cells or organisms specialize in specific functions, collectively enhancing the reproductive success of the entire group through cooperative behaviors.

Therefore, the evolution of individual replicators into roles where they forego their own reproduction can be driven by the benefits of inclusive fitness and kin selection, allowing for the emergence of complex multicellular organisms with specialized functions that contribute to overall reproductive success.