Following the pattern first observed by Humboldt and other explorers, a traveler today would expect to see which pattern of species distribution at different latitudes around the world?
A) A relatively stable pattern of species diversity at all latitudes
B) Highest species diversity in the tropics and lowest at the poles
C) Highest species diversity at the poles and lowest in the tropics
D) Highest species diversity in temperate zones and lower in the tropics and poles
E) Highest species diversity in the tropics and poles and lower in temperate zones

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This pattern, known as the latitudinal gradient of biodiversity, has been consistently observed and is thought to be due to a combination of factors including climate stability, spatial heterogeneity, and evolutionary history. The tropics have high biodiversity due to their stable climate and high productivity, while the poles have low biodiversity due to their extreme and variable climate.

Following the Pattern First Observed by Humboldt and Other Explorers