Which of the following is the best definition of sympatric speciation?
A) species that evolve due to geographical distance
B) mechanical isolation acts to prevent speciation
C) breeding behavior that prevents the organisms from breeding due to differences in their breeding time
D) ecological isolation
E) divergence within a population leads to speciation in the absence of a physical barrier to gene flow.

Question

Which of the following is the best definition of sympatric speciation?​
A) ​species that evolve due to geographical distance
B) ​mechanical isolation acts to prevent speciation
C) ​breeding behavior that prevents the organisms from breeding due to differences in their breeding time
D) ​ecological isolation
E) ​divergence within a population leads to speciation in the absence of a physical barrier to gene flow.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sympatric speciation refers to the formation of new species within a population that is in the same geographical location, without a physical barrier to gene flow. This can occur due to factors such as divergent selection, polyploidy, or disruptive selection, which lead to differences in the genetic makeup and traits of individuals within the population. Over time, these differences can become so pronounced that individuals are no longer able to interbreed and produce viable offspring, leading to the emergence of distinct species. Option E describes this process accurately. Option A refers to allopatric speciation, which occurs due to geographical separation, while options B, C, and D refer to different types of reproductive isolation mechanisms that can contribute to speciation but are not specific to sympatric speciation.

Which of the Following Is the Best Definition of Sympatric