5.2 Speciation

Which of the following is a mode of speciation that occurs when populations are separated by geographical barriers?

A. Sympatric speciation

B. Allopatric speciation

C. Parapatric speciation

D. Peripatric speciation

What is the primary cause of genetic divergence in the process of speciation?

A. Gene flow

B. Genetic drift

C. Random mating

D. Homologous recombination

Which type of barrier to gene flow involves differences in mating seasons or reproductive times?

A. Physical barrier

B. Ecological barrier

C. Temporal barrier

D. Behavioral barrier

In sympatric speciation, what is typically NOT a contributing factor?

A. Geographic isolation

B. Polyploidy

C. Ecological niche differentiation

D. Disruptive selection

Which of the following is an example of a mechanical barrier to gene flow?

A. Different mating calls

B. Incompatible genitalia

C. Different food preferences

D. Variation in breeding seasons

a) Explain the process of allopatric speciation and how genetic isolation contributes to the formation of new species. [4]

b) Provide an example of a physical barrier that can lead to allopatric speciation and discuss its impact on gene flow. [3]

a) Define sympatric speciation and discuss how it differs from allopatric speciation. [3]

b) Give an example of an ecological barrier that can contribute to sympatric speciation and explain its role in reproductive isolation. [4]

a) Discuss the role of temporal isolation as a prezygotic barrier in the speciation process. [4]

b) Provide an example of temporal isolation in nature and explain how it contributes to reproductive isolation. [3]

a) Define genetic divergence and explain how it contributes to the formation of new species. [3]

b) Discuss the role of behavioural isolation in speciation and provide an example illustrating this concept. [4]

c) Explain how mechanical barriers contribute to reproductive isolation. [3]

a) Describe the concept of ecological speciation and how ecological barriers lead to reproductive isolation. [4]

b) Discuss the significance of speciation in relation to biodiversity. [3]

c) Explain the concept of a species and the challenges associated with defining it. [3]