Which of these is an example of temporal isolation?
View Available Hint(s)
One species is found only in New York, the other only in London.
One species is nocturnal, and the other species is diurnal (active during the day).
The average weight of the individuals in one species is 100 ?pounds; in the other species, the average is 640 ?pounds.
One species cannot dance; the other only mates with species that can dance properly.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
One species is nocturnal, and the other species is diurnal (active during the day).
Explanation:
Temporal isolation is a type of reproductive isolation that occurs when two species reproduce at different times, preventing them from interbreeding. This can involve differences in the time of day, season, or year during which they are active or reproduce. Because their mating behaviors or periods do not overlap, there is no opportunity for gene flow between the populations.
In the context of the given options:
- Geographic separation (New York vs. London): This is an example of spatial or geographic isolation, not temporal isolation. The physical distance between the species, not the timing of their activities, prevents them from interacting.
- Activity pattern differences (nocturnal vs. diurnal): This is a clear example of temporal isolation. One species is active at night (nocturnal), while the other is active during the day (diurnal), meaning their activity and potential mating times do not overlap.
- Size difference (weight): This represents physical or mechanical differences rather than temporal isolation. It may prevent successful mating, but it is not related to the timing of activities.
- Behavioral preference (dancing): This is an example of behavioral isolation, where differences in courtship behaviors or preferences prevent mating, unrelated to timing.
Temporal isolation plays a significant role in the speciation process because it reduces the likelihood of hybridization between populations that occupy the same geographic area but reproduce at different times. For example, two closely related species of frogs may live in the same pond, but one breeds in early spring while the other breeds in late summer. Over time, these differences in breeding schedules can lead to the development of distinct species as they continue to evolve separately.