You collect individuals from a species of salamanders from several localities across an elevational transect ranging from sea level to approximately 2000 meters above sea level.The salamanders collected from 2000 meters above sea level develop the fastest,whereas those from sea level and intermediate sites developed more slowly.This is an example of:
A) Hybridization
B) Counter gradient variation
C) Sympatric speciation
D) Allopatric speciation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Counter gradient variation refers to the phenomenon where a trait shows an opposite relationship to an environmental gradient than what would be expected based on a direct relationship. In this case, the salamanders at higher elevations are exposed to colder temperatures, which would normally slow down their development. However, they develop faster instead, indicating a counter gradient variation. Hybridization refers to the process of two different species interbreeding, while sympatric and allopatric speciation are evolutionary processes that involve the formation of new species through different mechanisms. None of these explanations fit the observed phenomenon of salamander development varying with elevation.

You Collect Individuals from a Species of Salamanders from Several