The graph in Figure 22.9, below, shows that the extent of the adaptive radiation of the Galápagos finches is correlated with the number of islands present in the archipelago. What can be concluded from the graph?
A)This shows that rates of speciation are correlated with the net total land area available.
B)This shows that each island hosts sympatrically speciating populations.
C)This shows that opportunities for geographic isolation are a key component of the speciation process.
D)This shows that allopatric speciation tends not to occur on islands.
E)This shows that the balance between rates of sympatric and allopatric speciation is governed by mutation rates.

Question

The graph in Figure 22.9, below, shows that the extent of the adaptive radiation of the Galápagos finches is correlated with the number of islands present in the archipelago. What can be concluded from the graph? 
A)This shows that rates of speciation are correlated with the net total land area available. 
B)This shows that each island hosts sympatrically speciating populations. 
C)This shows that opportunities for geographic isolation are a key component of the speciation process. 
D)This shows that allopatric speciation tends not to occur on islands. 
E)This shows that the balance between rates of sympatric and allopatric speciation is governed by mutation rates.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The graph shows a correlation between the number of islands present in the Galápagos archipelago and the extent of adaptive radiation of the finches. This suggests that the availability of opportunities for geographic isolation (i.e. being separated by water) is a key component of the speciation process. Therefore, choice C is the best answer. Choices A, B, D, and E are incorrect because they do not directly relate to the information presented in the graph.

The Graph in Figure 22