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Multiple Choice
Bird guides once listed the myrtle warbler and Audubon's warbler as distinct species that lived side by side in parts of their ranges. However, recent books show them as eastern and western forms of a single species, the yellow-rumped warbler. Apparently, the myrtle warbler and Audubon's warbler __________.
A
live in the same areas
B
are almost identical in appearance
C
are merging to form a single species
D
have undergone coevolution
E
successfully interbreed and produce fertile offspring
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of species. In biology, a species is a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring under natural conditions.
Step 2: Consider the historical classification. The myrtle warbler and Audubon's warbler were once considered distinct species, suggesting they had differences significant enough to be classified separately.
Step 3: Examine the current classification. They are now considered forms of a single species, the yellow-rumped warbler, indicating a change in understanding of their relationship.
Step 4: Analyze the implications of this reclassification. If two groups are now considered the same species, it implies they can interbreed successfully and produce fertile offspring.
Step 5: Conclude based on biological principles. The ability to interbreed and produce fertile offspring is a key criterion for defining a single species, which explains why the myrtle warbler and Audubon's warbler are now classified as the same species.