When we look at islands across the planet (think the islands of the Galápagos and Hawaii) we see that there are a remarkable number of island endemic species, species that are found nowhere else. What is a possible explanation for this observation?
A)Extinction rates are lower in islands so species that have gone extinct elsewhere persist on islands.
B)Sympatric speciation on islands is easier than in mainland environments because rates of chromosomal evolution are higher on islands.
C)Sympatric speciation on islands is easier than in mainland environments because levels of disruptive selection are higher on islands.
D)Island isolation promotes allopatric speciation.
E)Vicariance events are more common on islands than in mainland environments.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Island isolation promotes allopatric speciation, which occurs when a population is isolated geographically from a main population, allowing for genetic divergence and ultimately leading to the formation of a new species. The isolation of islands is a common mechanism for allopatric speciation to occur, leading to the evolution of unique island endemic species.

When We Look at Islands Across the Planet (Think the Islands