Imagine That You Wanted to Know If Speciation Is More

question 15

Multiple Choice

Imagine that you wanted to know if speciation is more rapid in plant groups pollinated by bees or hummingbirds. To do this, you identified 20 genera of angiosperms that contained species pollinated by both types of animals. There were substantially more species in the groups that were pollinated by bees. Which of the following conclusions are most consistent with your data?

• A) Hummingbirds promoted speciation more than did bees.
• B) Hummingbirds promoted speciation less than did bees.
• C) Each genus should be split into two new genera.
• D) The rates of speciation were similar in groups pollinated by hummingbirds and bees.

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Definitions:

Sound Scientific Reason

Justification or explanation that is based on well-tested theories, empirical evidence, and principles of logic and scientific methodology.

Identified

Recognized as being a particular person or thing.

Angry

A strong feeling of displeasure or hostility, often resulting from perceived wrong, injury, or frustration.

Morally Correct

Acting in accordance with ethical principles or accepted standards of right and wrong.