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A mutation that enhances the survival and/or reproduction success of an individual is referred to as a(n) __________ mutation.

a) Lethal
b) Neutral
c) Beneficial
d) Harmful

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User Tcj
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Final answer:

A beneficial mutation increases an individual's survival and reproductive success, leading to evolutionary advances.

Step-by-step explanation:

A mutation that enhances the survival and/or reproduction success of an individual is referred to as a beneficial mutation. These mutations can result in new versions of proteins or traits that increase an organism's fitness, which is its capacity to survive and reproduce in a given environment.

A historical example includes the mutation for black coloration in peppered moths, which improved survival during the Industrial Revolution when soot darkened the trees where the moths rested. Another example is the mutation conferring resistance to insecticide in mosquitoes, which enhanced their survival rates. While most mutations are neutral or deleterious, it is the beneficial mutations that can lead to significant evolutionary advances.

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User Emperatriz
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