[Campbell Biology P.558] Which of the following statements accurately describes a difference... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes a difference between the specified postzygotic reproductive barriers?

  • A: Reduced Hybrid Viability leads to sterile F1 hybrids, while Reduced Hybrid Fertility results in feeble F2 offspring.
  • B: Reduced Hybrid Fertility occurs when F1 hybrids are viable but sterile, whereas Hybrid Breakdown is characterized by viable and fertile F1 hybrids whose F2 offspring are feeble or sterile.
  • C: Hybrid Breakdown prevents the formation of a zygote, while Reduced Hybrid Viability causes the F1 hybrids to be sterile.
  • D: All postzygotic barriers result in the complete prevention of fertilization.

Explanation

Reduced Hybrid Fertility specifically refers to F1 hybrids that are viable but sterile, as seen in mules. Hybrid Breakdown describes a scenario where F1 hybrids are viable and fertile, but their F2 offspring are feeble or sterile, exemplified by certain rice strains. The other options contain inaccuracies regarding the definitions and timing of these barriers.