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Multiple Choice
What is the effect of habitat fragmentation by humans on rates of speciation?
A
It leads to the extinction of species without affecting speciation.
B
It increases speciation rates by creating isolated populations.
C
It has no effect on speciation rates.
D
It decreases speciation rates by promoting gene flow between populations.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of habitat fragmentation: Habitat fragmentation occurs when large habitats are divided into smaller, isolated patches, often due to human activities such as urban development, agriculture, and deforestation.
Consider the impact of isolation on populations: When populations become isolated due to habitat fragmentation, they may experience reduced gene flow, which can lead to genetic divergence over time.
Explore the role of genetic divergence in speciation: Genetic divergence can result in the development of new species as isolated populations adapt to their specific environments and accumulate genetic differences.
Evaluate the potential for increased speciation rates: Isolated populations are more likely to undergo speciation because they are subject to different selective pressures and genetic drift, which can lead to the formation of new species.
Conclude the effect of habitat fragmentation: Based on the understanding of isolation and genetic divergence, habitat fragmentation by humans can increase speciation rates by creating isolated populations that may evolve into distinct species.