In the scenario provided, dark-colored fish are stated to survive better near the bottom of the environment. Over many generations living in this habitat, a likely change that would result is the evolution of two distinct populations of fish: one with light-colored fish near the surface and another with dark-colored fish near the bottom. This adaptation is known as "divergent evolution."
Divergent evolution occurs when a single ancestral species evolves into two or more distinct species due to different environmental pressures. In this case, the fish are adapting to their environment by developing traits that enhance their survival. The light-colored fish near the surface may evolve to better blend in with the light above, while the dark-colored fish near the bottom may evolve to camouflage against predators in the darker depths.
This process of natural selection drives the evolution of species over time, leading to the development of distinct populations with specialized traits suited to their respective environments. By adapting to different niches within their habitat, the fish are increasing their chances of survival and reproduction, ultimately leading to the formation of two separate populations.
In conclusion, the likely result after many generations of these dark-colored fish living in this environment is the evolution of two populations with distinct colorations, each better suited to their specific ecological niche within the habitat.
