A genetic mutation causes a squirrel to be born with much darker fur than its parents. How will this mutation most likely affect the squirrel population? Because the trait was caused by a mutation, it will not be passed on to any offspring, resulting in the disappearance of the trait. Because the trait was caused by a mutation, it will be passed on to offspring over many generations, resulting in a population of darker squirrels. If the trait is unfavorable, it will be passed on to offspring over many generations, resulting in a population of darker squirrels. If the trait is favorable, it will be passed on to offspring over many generations, resulting in a population of darker squirrels.