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Multiple Choice
In the case of the Lake Victoria cichlids, sympatric speciation has been shown to be driven by __________.
A
polyploidy
B
habitat differentiation
C
mechanical isolation
D
postzygotic barriers
E
sexual selection
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of sympatric speciation: Sympatric speciation occurs when new species evolve from a single ancestral species while inhabiting the same geographic region. This is different from allopatric speciation, where geographic isolation is a key factor.
Identify the mechanisms that can lead to sympatric speciation: These include factors like polyploidy, habitat differentiation, mechanical isolation, postzygotic barriers, and sexual selection.
Focus on sexual selection: Sexual selection is a form of natural selection where certain traits increase an individual's chances of mating and passing on their genes. In the case of Lake Victoria cichlids, sexual selection has been a significant driver of speciation.
Consider how sexual selection can lead to speciation: In Lake Victoria cichlids, variations in male coloration and female preferences for these colors can lead to reproductive isolation, even without geographic barriers.
Conclude that sexual selection can drive sympatric speciation: The preference for specific traits can lead to the formation of distinct species within the same environment, as seen in Lake Victoria cichlids.