What is the main difference between allopatric and sympatric speciation?
BIOLOGY
SAT 2021
What is the main difference between allopatric and sympatric speciation?
- A. Sympatric speciation mainly occurred in the past whereas allopatric speciation still occurs today.
- B. Allopatric speciation occurs when species are separated geographically whereas sympatric speciation occurs without geographical separation.
- C. There are no large differences between these two forms of speciation.
- D. Sympatric speciation occurs when species are separated geographically whereas allopatric speciation occurs without geographical separation
Correct Answer: B. Allopatric speciation occurs when species are separated geographically whereas sympatric speciation occurs without geographical separation.
Explanation
Allopatric speciation occurs when two populations are separated geographically and diverge over time due to natural selection, genetic drift, and mutations. This may be due to a mountain range forming, a river, or any sort of geographic barrier. Sympatric speciation involves populations diverging without any sort of geographical barrier. Both occur today and both likely occurred in the past as well.
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