The process by which members of isolated populations become so different in genetic makeup that they cannot produce live, fertile offspring if they are rejoined together is best described as ____.
A) geographic isolation
B) reproductive isolation
C) evolutionary isolation
D) endemic isolation
E) niche isolation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The process described refers to reproductive isolation, which occurs when two populations become so genetically different that they can no longer produce viable offspring if they are reunited. Geographic isolation may lead to reproductive isolation, but it is not the same thing. Evolutionary isolation and niche isolation are not commonly used terms in biology. Endemic isolation refers to species that are only found in one specific geographic location, and is not related to reproductive compatibility.

The Process by Which Members of Isolated Populations Become So