The following observations have been made about moose living in the northeastern forests of the United States: Male moose grow very broad antlers each year and lose them after the mating season in autumn.
Large, heavy antlers can make escaping predators in a forest difficult if the trees grow closely together or if the underbrush is thick.
Female moose do not develop antlers.
Female moose raise their calves alone without the assistance of males.
What is the most likely inference that can be drawn from these observations?
a
Having antlers makes the males grow bigger so they can better compete for food in the fall.
b
Antlers make a male moose more likely to attract a mate and pass on the gene for antlers.

c
Male moose spend all their excess energy growing antlers and cannot help raise offspring.
d
Male moose without antlers are more attractive to females because they can escape predators