Which of the following is a key requirement for the biological process of speciation through geographic isolation (allopatric speciation)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Prevention of gene flow between geographically separated populations
- Step 1: Allopatric speciation requires an extrinsic physical barrier (mountain range, waterway, glacier) that halts interbreeding. Step 2. Preventing gene flow allows reproductive isolation and divergent adaptations to accumulate independently. Answer: Prevention of gene flow between geographically separated populations. Why not the others: Uniform environments and genetic identity inhibit evolutionary divergence.
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