A paleontologist is studying a group of fossils from its first appearance in the fossil record to its extinction. She determines that the group descends from a single common ancestor and gave rise to no new species. Its appearance is distinct from any other group of fossils. Based on this information, she decides that it is a new species. In coming to this decision, which species concept or concepts is she using?
A)biological species concept
B)morph species concept
C)phylogenetic species concept
D)ecological species concept

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The paleontologist is using the morphological species concept (B) because she identifies the species based on its distinct physical appearance. She is also using the phylogenetic species concept (C) because she considers the species' unique lineage from a single common ancestor without giving rise to new species.

A Paleontologist Is Studying a Group of Fossils from Its