In Many Bird Species, the Number of Eggs Laid Is

Multiple Choice

In many bird species, the number of eggs laid is negatively correlated with the survival of the young.At the extreme of very large clutch sizes, hardly any of the young survive.Clutch size variation is largely due to genetic factors.In light of this, which statement is most likely to be true?

A) This represents a case of heterozygote advantage, and selection should favor very large clutches.
B) This represents a case of heterozygote advantage, and selection should favor intermediate-sized clutches.
C) This is an example of a trade-off, and selection should favor very large clutches.
D) This is an example of a trade-off, and selection should favor intermediate-sized clutches.
E) Selection would not be expected to affect clutch size.