Are species with new / mutated traits more likely to be prolific?

Question

For the sake of this question we will accept that Natural Selection and Evolutionary Theory are valid. This isn't a debate about Creationism or Intelligent Design. I'm just curious about thoughts regarding this particular aspect of Natural Selection.

New traits that enhance the organism's viability are very rare, so would it be likely that the organism in question would have to be as prolific as possible in order to disseminate these new traits?

Just curious...

Answer 1

the increased viability might cause the species to be more prolific. for example, if a mutation occurs that allows the organism to better defend itself against predators, then the mustated organism and its offspring will have a higher chance of survival than the others and thus reproduce more often. this will cause the trait to spread. another example that has the same effect is better adaptability to the environment. if the organism developes a trait that helps attract mates, it will also have a higher chance of having offspring.
therefore, an organism with a benefitial mutation is more likely to survive and have offspring, although that does not necessarily mean being more prolific.

Answer 2

well, it is basically 50/50. The new or mutated trait can either help or hinder the species.

If it helps the species then it gives it a higher chance of surviving to reproduce and passing on that trait to their offspring.

If the trait hinders the species, then the individual with that trait will most probably die before reproducing and introducing a new trait into the gene pool.

Answer 3

New traits that increases viability does not need to be more prolific. They just die less.