Final answer:
Populations with higher abundance are expected to have a larger geographic range, which is supported by the higher genetic variability and adaptability in species with larger numbers of individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
B) higher, larger
In general, populations with higher abundance are expected to have a larger geographic range. This correlation arises because a species with a large number of individuals is more likely to spread across a greater area as their population grows. Furthermore, species with more individuals tend to have greater genetic variability, which provides them with a better capacity to adapt to different environments and thus colonize a more extensive range.
Geographical constraints can also play a role, as more species and higher population densities are often found at the center of geographical ranges rather than the extremes. Large populations with higher population densities may contribute to the stability and adaptability of the species, promoting a more extensive range of habitat occupancy. However, it's essential to consider that this is a general pattern, and exceptions exist due to specific ecological and evolutionary pressures.