Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
When does geographic isolation occur in the process of speciation?
A
When populations are separated by differences in feeding habits.
B
When populations are separated by differences in mating rituals.
C
When populations are separated by physical barriers such as mountains or rivers.
D
When populations interbreed freely without any barriers.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of speciation: Speciation is the evolutionary process by which populations evolve to become distinct species. It often involves the development of reproductive isolation between populations.
Identify the role of geographic isolation: Geographic isolation occurs when physical barriers such as mountains, rivers, or other landscape features prevent populations from interbreeding. This is a key factor in allopatric speciation.
Differentiate between types of isolation: Geographic isolation is distinct from other forms of isolation such as behavioral isolation (differences in mating rituals) or ecological isolation (differences in feeding habits).
Recognize the impact of geographic isolation: When populations are geographically isolated, they may undergo genetic divergence due to mutation, natural selection, and genetic drift, eventually leading to speciation.
Conclude with the correct scenario: Geographic isolation specifically refers to the separation of populations by physical barriers, which is a critical step in the process of speciation.