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Cichlid fish are among the most diverse freshwater fish group. In Lake Tanganyika, multiple species (>200) have evolved without physical isolation. The type of speciation is referred to as______________.

a) Allopatric speciation
b) Sympatric speciation
c) Parapatric speciation
d) Peripatric speciation
e) Adaptive radiation

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Sympatric speciation is when new species evolve from a common ancestor in the same geographic location without physical separation. It has been observed extensively in cichlid fish in African lakes, where there is also a case of adaptive radiation due to rapid speciation into diverse niches.

Step-by-step explanation:

The type of speciation referred to in the question is sympatric speciation. This process involves species that are descended from a common ancestor and remain in one location, without geographical barriers leading to reproductive isolation. It is commonly observed in cichlid fish species of Lake Victoria and Lake Tanganyika, where there is a remarkable diversity of species with different morphologies and feeding strategies. These lakes provide clear examples of sympatric speciation and also represent cases of adaptive radiation, where a large number of species arise from a common ancestor in a relatively short period of time, adapting to various niches within the same environment.

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