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Multiple Choice
Reproductive isolation occurs when:
A
gene flow increases between two populations
B
all individuals in a population have identical genetic material
C
members of different populations can no longer interbreed and produce fertile offspring
D
natural selection favors the same traits in all environments
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of reproductive isolation. Reproductive isolation refers to mechanisms that prevent two populations from interbreeding and producing fertile offspring, which is a key factor in the process of speciation.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided in the problem. For example, 'gene flow increases between two populations' would actually reduce reproductive isolation, as it allows genetic material to be exchanged between populations.
Step 3: Evaluate the option 'all individuals in a population have identical genetic material.' This is not related to reproductive isolation, as genetic uniformity within a population does not prevent interbreeding with other populations.
Step 4: Focus on the correct answer: 'members of different populations can no longer interbreed and produce fertile offspring.' This is the definition of reproductive isolation, as it prevents gene flow and leads to the divergence of populations.
Step 5: Consider the option 'natural selection favors the same traits in all environments.' This would not lead to reproductive isolation, as similar selective pressures across environments would likely maintain genetic compatibility between populations.