Biogeographic Isolation Quiz

Question 1

A student argues that being separated geographically is the only way for speciation to occur. Why is he wrong?

Answer 1

Speciation can occur from biological forces as well

Question 2

Which is most likely to happen to a population that becomes anatomically isolated from the rest of its species?

Answer 2

The population will become a separate species over time

Question 3

Which of the following is the best definition of biogeographic isolation?

Answer 3

The separation of members of a species through geographical or biological forces

Question 4

Which lists the correct sequence of events for evolution to occur through isolation?

Answer 4

Founding population arrives, biogeographic isolation occurs, genetic changes occur, reproductive isolation results

Question 5

Cardueline finches can be found in many areas of the world, including North America and Asia. Hawaiian honeycreepers, which are found only in Hawaii, have been found to have DNA commonalities with this group of finches that indicate they have a common ancestor. Which mechanism might have led to the appearance of the Hawaiian honeycreeper?

Answer 5

Geographical isolation

Question 6

Why do species evolve during adaptive radiation?

Answer 6

To fill different niches

Question 7

Scientists today can use many investigative methods to study evolution. Which method was developed after Darwin’s time?

Answer 7

DNA comparisons

Question 8

The northern red-legged frog, or Rana aurora, is found along the western coast from British Columbia to Northern California. Their typical breeding season lasts from January to March. The foothill yellow-legged frog, or Rana boylii, is found along the western coast from northern Oregon to central California. Their typical breeding season lasts from April to July. What mechanism might keep Rana aurora and Rana boylii from mating?

Answer 8

Temporal isolation

Question 9

Two species of flies, Drosophila melanogaster and Drosophila simulans, can mate. They usually do not mate, however, even if they are kept together in a laboratory. Males court the females of both species, but the females prefer to mate with males of their own species. Which isolating mechanism does this describe?

Answer 9

Behavioral

Question 10

Gentoo penguins present a potential mate with a pebble. Emperor penguins have a specific call and movement that they make to attract a mate. Which type of isolation do these penguins demonstrate?

Answer 10

Behavioral isolation