There are two closely related populations of squirrels living in the Grand Canyon area―one lives on the north rim,the other lives on the south rim.Speciation in these squirrels BEST fits which model?
A) dispersive allopatric speciation
B) dispersive sympatric speciation
C) vicariant allopatric speciation
D) vicariant sympatric speciation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vicariant allopatric speciation, which occurs when a single population is separated by a physical or geographic barrier, resulting in two separate populations, is the best fit for the situation described in the question. The Grand Canyon acts as a physical barrier separating the two populations of squirrels, leading to geographical isolation and eventual speciation. The fact that the two populations live on opposite sides of the canyon indicates that they have been separated for a significant amount of time. Dispersive allopatric speciation and dispersive sympatric speciation are not applicable as there is no indication of migration or dispersal between the two populations. Vicariant sympatric speciation is not applicable as the two populations are geographically isolated.

There Are Two Closely Related Populations of Squirrels Living in the Grand