[Campbell Biology P.559] Two bird species live in the same forest. Species A feeds and mates... | Practice Question

Two bird species live in the same forest. Species A feeds and mates in treetops, while Species B feeds and mates on the ground. They are not known to interbreed in nature. However, if kept in captivity, they can interbreed and produce viable, fertile offspring. Which type of reproductive barrier most likely keeps these species separate in nature?

  • A: Gametic isolation
  • B: Reduced hybrid viability
  • C: Habitat isolation
  • D: Hybrid breakdown

Explanation

Since the two bird species can interbreed and produce viable, fertile offspring in captivity, postzygotic barriers and gametic isolation are ruled out. Their separation in nature, despite their reproductive compatibility, is best explained by habitat isolation a prezygotic barrier , as they utilize different parts of the forest for feeding and mating, thus preventing encounters.