Can someone explain the role that stabilizing selection plays in increasing or decreasing variation within a population?

Question

quickstudent · Answer

@strawberrysorbet ?

quickstudent · Answer

Can I have an example of this?

anonymous · Answer

When selective pressures select against the two extremes of a trait, the population experiences stabilizing selection. For example, plant height might be acted on by stabilizing selection. A plant that is too short may not be able to compete with other plants for sunlight. However, extremely tall plants may be more susceptible to wind damage. Combined, these two selection pressures select to maintain plants of medium height. The number of plants of medium height will increase while the numbers of short and tall plants will decrease.

quickstudent · Answer

So, this type of selection decreases variation in a population?

anonymous · Answer

Yes, I believe so! But If you find my answer helpful please click "best response" Thank you :)

quickstudent · Answer

Thanks!