| Sex and the Single Guppy |
| The purpose of this activity is to analyze how guppy populations change over time. The simulation activity allows you to start with a pool of guppies and your choice of predators, you will be able to watch what happens to your guppy population and how the introduction of predators can affect the guppy's appearance. The simulation will help you understand what pressures drive guppy evolution. *Activity adapted from PBS - http://www.pbs.org |
| Introduction: 1. If being flashy and colorful attracts predators, why do you think guppies are so colorful? 2. After viewing the guppy gallery, pick the fish you find most interesting. What is the fish�s scientific name, origin and average size? Describe the coloration of the fish you chose. 3. After viewing the predator gallery, pick the fish you find most interesting. What is the fish�s common name, scientific name, and origin? 4. View the guppy�s habitats, what habitat conditions would affect the predator populations? Endler�s Discovery and Variations of Guppy�s in Pools 5. Who is John Endler? What did he study and where did he study it? 6. For each of the three stream areas, describe the guppy coloration: Pool 1: Pool 2: Pool 3: 7. Develop your own hypothesis about guppy coloration. The hypothesis should answer the questions: Why do guppies in different areas of the stream have difference in coloration? (You can choose from the list on the simulation, or make up your own) |
| The Simulation is located at: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/evolution/sex/guppy/ed_pop.html |