[Campbell Biology P.561] Based on the results of the fruit fly experiment Figure 24.7 , whic... | Practice Question

Based on the results of the fruit fly experiment Figure 24.7 , which statement accurately describes the mating patterns observed?

  • A: In the experimental group, starch-adapted male flies showed a strong preference for maltose-adapted female flies over starch-adapted female flies.
  • B: The control group results showed a strong reproductive barrier between two different starch-adapted populations.
  • C: Starch-adapted flies and maltose-adapted flies in the experimental group tended to mate with partners adapted to the same food source.
  • D: The reproductive isolation observed in the experimental group was absolute, with no matings occurring between starch and maltose adapted flies.

Explanation

The tables show that in the experimental group, starch-adapted flies Male Starch x Female Starch = 22 mated more frequently with other starch-adapted flies than with maltose-adapted flies Male Starch x Female Maltose = 9 . Similarly, maltose-adapted flies Male Maltose x Female Maltose = 20 mated more frequently with other maltose-adapted flies than with starch-adapted flies Male Maltose x Female Starch = 8 . This indicates a preference for like partners, suggesting a forming reproductive barrier.