Where Do Species Come From?

What unique feature does the tuatara have?

• A third eye beneath scales on its head

• Ability to fly

• Has feathers instead of scales

• Can change colors like a chameleon

Answer explanation

The tuatara has a third eye beneath scales on its head, which is its unique feature.

Why is the tuatara considered a living fossil?

• It has not evolved at all

• It's similar now to how it was in the Jurassic Era

• Because it can live underwater

• Because it can live for a thousand years

Answer explanation

The tuatara is considered a living fossil because it's similar now to how it was in the Jurassic Era.

What complicates the classification of species?

• Their size

• Their color

• DNA evidence

• Their ability to fly

Answer explanation

DNA evidence complicates the classification of species because it can reveal genetic similarities and differences that may not be apparent based on size, color, or ability to fly.

What concept do scientists typically use to define species in this series?

• The ecological species concept

• The phylogenetic species concept

• The biological species concept

• The geographical species concept

Answer explanation

Scientists typically use the biological species concept to define species in this series, which focuses on reproductive isolation and interbreeding.

What is an example of a hybrid that cannot reproduce?

• A plumcot

• A liger

• A zorse

• A mule

Answer explanation

A zorse is a hybrid of a zebra and a horse, but it cannot reproduce, making it an example of a hybrid that cannot reproduce.

What is allopatric speciation?

• Speciation due to geographical isolation

• Speciation due to differences in mating rituals

• Speciation due to polyploidy

• Speciation within the same geographical area

Answer explanation

Allopatric speciation is the process of speciation due to geographical isolation, making the correct answer choice A.

What can cause sympatric speciation?

• Extreme weather conditions

• Lack of food resources

• Mate preference

• Geographical barriers

Answer explanation

Sympatric speciation can occur due to mate preference, where individuals within a population choose to mate with specific traits, leading to the formation of new species.

What is polyploidy?

• A method of asexual reproduction

• A disease in plants

• A type of symbiotic relationship

• Inheriting multiple sets of chromosomes

Answer explanation

Polyploidy refers to inheriting multiple sets of chromosomes, which can occur in plants and animals.

What is a key factor in the speciation process?

• Color variation

• Reproductive isolation

• Ability to migrate

• Dietary preferences

Answer explanation

Reproductive isolation is a key factor in the speciation process as it leads to the formation of new species by preventing interbreeding between different populations.

What role does DNA analysis play in understanding species?

• It can help understand how groups of organisms are distinct

• It helps understand the physical characteristics of a species

• It is only used for plants

• It is used to determine the age of a species

Answer explanation

DNA analysis helps understand how groups of organisms are distinct, making it the correct choice.