Geographically Isolated Subpopulations of a Species Can Evolve Partial Reproductive

question 20

Multiple Choice

Geographically isolated subpopulations of a species can evolve partial reproductive isolation. If two subpopulations come into secondary contact, they can either become one mixed population, or, during a process called reinforcement, selection may lead to greater reproductive isolation. The latter will occur if mating between subpopulations results in hybrid offspring that have lower fitness. Could cultural evolution play a role in reinforcement?

• A) Yes, if traits that affect reproductive isolation can be culturally transmitted.
• B) Yes, but only if there is zero cultural transmission between subpopulations.
• C) No; in order to form separate species, the changes have to be genetic.
• D) No; culturally transmitted behavioral traits are bound to be "leaky" (allow for some level of gene flow).

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Definitions:

Special Significance

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