In what way is reproductive isolation generally related to genetic divergence between newly forming species?
A) As genetic divergence increases, reproductive isolation increases
B) Reproductive isolation is independent of genetic divergence
C) As genetic divergence increases, reproductive isolation remains the same.
D) As reproductive isolation decreases, genetic divergence increases
E) Genetic divergence is independent of reproductive isolation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reproductive isolation and genetic divergence are correlated with one another. As genetic divergence increases, so too does reproductive isolation. This is because the genetic differences that accumulate between two populations over time can lead to reproductive barriers as the populations become more and more distinct. Therefore, newly forming species that have undergone significant genetic divergence will also typically have strong reproductive isolation barriers in place.

In What Way Is Reproductive Isolation Generally Related to Genetic