Question

17. A researcher notices that in a certain moth species, some females prefer to feed and lay eggs on domesticated solanaceous plants like potatoes and tomatoes. Other females prefers to feed lay eggs on wild solanaceous plants like Datura. Both male and female moths primarily use scent to find these plants from afar. Females tend to mate where they feed, and the researcher find a genetic basis for scent preference in these moths. Based on the above information, what might be occurring in this moth species.

A. Divergence in sympatry
B. Postzygotic isolation
C. Divergence due to vicariance
D. Polyploidization

Answer 1

The phenomenon in the moth species can be described as divergence in sympatry, where two populations of the same species evolve different traits while living in the same geographical area.

Step-by-step explanation:

This phenomenon in the moth species can be described as divergence in sympatry. Divergence in sympatry occurs when two populations of the same species evolve different traits while living in the same geographical area.

In this case, some female moths have developed a genetic preference for feeding and laying eggs on domesticated solanaceous plants, while others prefer wild solanaceous plants.

This divergence in behavior and preference is likely driven by natural selection based on the availability and suitability of these different plant types as food sources.