Question

Which of the following elements distinguishes the cohesion and differential species concepts from the biological species concept? In other words, which element is part of the cohesion and differential fitness species concepts but NOT part of the biological species concept?

A) Individuals of the same species must look very similar to one another

B) Individuals of the same species must be able to produce, viable, fertile offspring with other individuals, i.e. be genetically "exchangeable" across populations

C) Individuals of the same species must be able to sustain a population (i.e. replace themselves at least) in any location occupied by other individuals of its species, i.e. be ecologically "exchangeable" across populations (must be reciprocal in the differential fitness species concept)

Answer 1

The cohesion and differential fitness species concepts are distinguished from the biological species concept by the requirement of ecological exchangeability across populations, which is not a criterion in the biological species concept.

Step-by-step explanation:

The element that distinguishes the cohesion and differential fitness species concepts from the biological species concept is the ecological exchangeability across populations. The cohesion and differential fitness species concepts require that individuals of the same species must be ecologically exchangeable across locations, meaning they must sustain a population wherever other individuals of its species are present.

This concept is reciprocal in the differential fitness species concept. In contrast, the biological species concept primarily emphasizes the ability to produce viable, fertile offspring and does not account for ecological exchangeability.