Question

Which of the following would result in allopatric speciation?

A. Two squirrel populations separated by a river
B. Two birds living in different parts of a tree
C. Two lion prides living in the same savannah
D. A group of insects with the same mating call
E. Two groups of dogs that have different fur colors.

Answer 1

Two squirrel populations separated by a river would lead to allopatric speciation because the river acts as a physical barrier, preventing genetic interchange and allowing for the evolution of distinct species.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the options given, the one that would result in allopatric speciation is A: Two squirrel populations separated by a river. Allopatric speciation occurs when biological populations of the same species become geographically isolated from each other to an extent that prevents or interferes with genetic interchange.

Isolation by a river can lead to allopatric speciation because the physical barrier it creates can prevent the two populations of squirrels from interbreeding. Over time, due to different environmental pressures and genetic drift, these populations may evolve into distinct species. This scenario is supported by examples such as the different species of squirrel found on opposite sides of the Grand Canyon, who have evolved into separate species due to the geographic isolation imposed by the canyon.