Some Biologists Believe That the Latitudinal Gradient in Species Diversity

question 54

Multiple Choice

Some biologists believe that the latitudinal gradient in species diversity reflects the fact that high latitudes recently lay beneath large glaciers. If there had been no recent ice age, would we still expect to see a latitudinal diversity gradient?

• A)No, without the ice ages, biomes at high latitudes would be older, with more time for the diversification of species.
• B)No, without polar ice (large ice formation around the pole), warm ocean currents like the Gulf Stream would carry more heat to high latitudes, making them more productive and, so, supporting more diversity.
• C)Yes, with or without recent glaciation of high latitudes, there is still less energy available at high latitudes to support diverse biomes.
• D)Yes, nutrient availability would still be lower at high latitudes.

---

Definitions:

Earliest-Known Sculptures

The oldest discovered artworks in the medium of sculpture, dating back to prehistoric times and serving various cultural and religious purposes.

BCE

Before Common Era, a non-religious alternative to BC (Before Christ), used in the Gregorian calendar to denote years before the birth of Jesus.

Neolithic Construction

Refers to structures built during the Neolithic era, around 12,000 years ago, including monumental stone buildings and megalithic sites.

Northern Europe

A geographical and cultural region in Europe, typically including countries such as the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, and the Baltic states.