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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why entering an interglacial period resulted in an increase in biodiversity on Earth?
A
Warmer climates and retreating glaciers created new habitats and ecological niches, allowing species to diversify and adapt.
B
The lack of environmental change during interglacial periods prevented the evolution of new species.
C
Colder temperatures during interglacial periods favored the extinction of most species, reducing competition.
D
Interglacial periods caused a decrease in available resources, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: An interglacial period is a warmer phase within an ice age, characterized by retreating glaciers and milder climates. These periods are significant for their impact on ecosystems and biodiversity.
Analyze the options: The question provides four possible explanations for the increase in biodiversity during interglacial periods. Carefully evaluate each option based on biological principles and ecological dynamics.
Option 1: 'Warmer climates and retreating glaciers created new habitats and ecological niches, allowing species to diversify and adapt.' This aligns with the concept that environmental changes, such as the creation of new habitats, promote speciation and adaptation, leading to increased biodiversity.
Option 2: 'The lack of environmental change during interglacial periods prevented the evolution of new species.' This is incorrect because interglacial periods are marked by significant environmental changes, such as the retreat of glaciers and the emergence of new ecosystems, which drive evolutionary processes.
Option 3 and 4: 'Colder temperatures during interglacial periods favored extinction' and 'Interglacial periods caused a decrease in resources' are also incorrect because interglacial periods are warmer, not colder, and they generally increase resource availability by creating diverse habitats. Thus, the correct explanation is Option 1.