According to the punctuated equilibria model,

(A) given enough time, most existing species will branch gradually into new species.

(B) most new species accumulate their unique features relatively rapidly as they come into existence, then change little for the rest of their duration as a species.

(C) most evolution occurs in sympatric populations.

(D) speciation is usually due to a single mutation.

Short Answer

Expert verified
  1. The option"given enough time, most existing species will branch gradually into new species" is false.
  2. The option"most new species accumulate their unique features relatively rapidly as they come into existence, then change little for the rest of their duration as a species" is true.
  3. The option "most evolution occurs in sympatric populations" is false.
  4. The option"speciation is usually due to a single mutation" is false.

Step by step solution

01

Species

Species describe the arrangement of related entities that possess mutual features. They all are arranged in the manner that they possess the capability of interbreeding. The concept of biological species is extensively utilized in the diverse fields of biology.

02

Explanation of option '(A)'

As per the punctuated equilibria model, most of the existing species arose rapidly. They do not require or take enough time for their gradual development to new species.

Thus, the punctuated equilibria model refers to the state of rapid development of species.

Therefore, the given term is false.

03

Explanation of option '(B)'

Punctuated equilibrium theory describes the working of the evolutionary process as per the plans of first arrivals and succeeding histories of species as per the fossil record.

This theory grasps and explains that the species initiate too rapidly to facilitate their ancestries to be drawn by paleontologists. Then, later on, they continue unaffected via geological time in equilibrium.

Thus, punctuated equilibrium theory explains that the species initiate too quickly to facilitate their ancestries.

Therefore, the given term is true.

04

Explanation of option '(C)'

Punctuated equilibrium theory describes the occurrence of evolution allopatrically. In this theory, evolution does not arise sympatrically.

Thus, punctuated equilibrium theory explains allopatric populations.

Therefore, the given term is false.

05

Explanation of option '(D)'

As per the punctuated equilibria model, the incidence of multiple mutations tends to cause speciation. A single mutation cannot result in speciation.

Thus,punctuated equilibrium theory clarifiesthe process of speciation by multiple mutations.

Therefore, the given term is false.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Suppose two bird species live in a forest and are not known to interbreed. One species feeds and mates in the treetops and the other on the ground. But in captivity, the birds can interbreed and produce viable, fertile offspring. What type of reproductive barrier most likely keeps these species separate in nature? Explain.

Which of the following factors would not contribute to allopatric speciation?

(A) The separated population is small, and genetic drift occurs.

(B) The isolated population is exposed to different selection pressures than the ancestral population.

(C) Different mutations begin to distinguish the gene pools of the separated populations.

(D) Gene flow between the two populations is extensive.

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Calculate the value of the reproductive isolation index if (a) allof the matings within a population were successful, but noneof the matings between populations was successful; (b) salamanders are equally successful in mating with members of their own population and members of another population.

Describe two mechanisms that can decrease gene flow in sympatric populations, thereby making sympatric speciation more likely to occur.

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