In a population of plants with a diploid number of 12, a new individual appeared with a chromosome number of 24. If this organism could self-fertilize, forming offspring with the same number of chromosomes (24), scientists would consider this an example of
A) sympatric speciation.
B) behavioral isolation.
C) formation of a hybrid zone.
D) reduced hybrid fertility.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sympatric speciation is when a new species forms from a single ancestral species while inhabiting the same geographic region. In this case, the individual with 24 chromosomes would no longer be able to interbreed with individuals of the original population, leading to the formation of a new species within the same area.

In a Population of Plants with a Diploid Number of 12