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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is an example of how symbiosis can lead to coevolution?
A
A population of birds migrating to a new habitat due to climate change.
B
The relationship between flowering plants and their specific pollinator insects evolving matching traits over time.
C
A predator evolving sharper teeth to catch faster prey.
D
A plant species dispersing its seeds by wind.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of symbiosis: Symbiosis refers to a close and long-term biological interaction between two different species. This interaction can be mutualistic (both benefit), commensalistic (one benefits, the other is unaffected), or parasitic (one benefits, the other is harmed).
Define coevolution: Coevolution occurs when two or more species reciprocally affect each other's evolution. This often happens in closely interacting species, such as those in a symbiotic relationship.
Analyze the options: Evaluate each option to determine if it describes a symbiotic relationship and whether it demonstrates coevolution. For example, a predator evolving sharper teeth to catch faster prey is not symbiosis but rather an example of predator-prey dynamics.
Focus on the correct example: The relationship between flowering plants and their specific pollinator insects is a mutualistic symbiosis. Over time, the plants and insects evolve traits that complement each other, such as flower shape matching the pollinator's body structure, which is a clear example of coevolution.
Eliminate unrelated options: Dispersing seeds by wind and birds migrating due to climate change do not involve symbiosis or coevolution, as they do not describe a close biological interaction between two species influencing each other's evolution.