[Campbell Biology P.560] Which of the following statements accurately describes the key dist... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes the key distinction between allopatric and sympatric speciation?

  • A: Allopatric speciation occurs with geographic isolation, while sympatric speciation occurs without it.
  • B: Allopatric speciation always involves a change in water levels, whereas sympatric speciation involves river changes.
  • C: Sympatric speciation leads to reproductive isolation, but allopatric speciation does not.
  • D: Gene flow is interrupted in sympatric speciation but not in allopatric speciation.

Explanation

Allopatric speciation is characterized by geographic isolation, which interrupts gene flow, leading to divergence. Sympatric speciation occurs without geographic separation, with new species arising from a subset of a population in the same area.