In the North Pacific Ocean, two groups of the same species of killer whales (Orcinus orca) appear to be forming two different species based on what they eat. One group eats fish and the other eats mammals such as seals. Scientists can tell what they eat based on their teeth, because whales that feed on fish have significantly different wear patterns.
-Which of the following describes the type of speciation event that is occurring in these whales?
A) sympatric speciation
B) allopatric speciation
C) geographic speciation
D) punctuated speciation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sympatric speciation occurs when two or more populations of a species that share the same habitat become reproductively isolated from each other due to different selective pressures or behaviors, leading to the formation of new species. In this case, the two groups of killer whales are sharing the same habitat but are forming different species based on their different diets. This is an example of sympatric speciation.

In the North Pacific Ocean, Two Groups of the Same