In the two species of Lobelia from Mount Kenya discussed in the text, L.telekii, which lives on dry rocky slopes, is semelparous, produces many seeds, and has a short life span.L.keniensis, which lives in moist valleys, is iteroparous, produces fewer large seeds, and lives longer.The differences in these two species suggest that their
A) habitats acted on genetic differences to cause the changes.
B) genetic differences are not related to their different habitats.
C) differences are based on environmental factors other than habitat.
D) differences reflect the plants' range of adaptability, not their genetics.
E) life history variations are part of the species and not subject to change.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The differences in life history traits between L. telekii and L. keniensis suggest that they have evolved adaptations to their respective habitats. Specifically, L. telekii has evolved to produce many seeds and have a short lifespan to maximize its reproductive output in the harsh, dry conditions of the rocky slopes. In contrast, L. keniensis has evolved to produce fewer, larger seeds, and live longer in the moist valleys. These adaptations are likely the result of natural selection acting on genetic differences between the two species in response to their different environmental conditions.

In the Two Species of Lobelia from Mount Kenya Discussed