The Origin of a New Cichlid Species in an African Lake

What is the example of the origin of a new cichlid species in an African lake?

A. Habitat selection

B. Allopatric speciation

C. Autopolyploidy

D. Sympatric speciation

Answer:

The answer is sympatric speciation.

Sympatric speciation is a type of speciation that occurs within a population where individuals live freely across the habitat without being separated by geographical features. In the case of the origin of a new cichlid species in an African lake, speciation occurs due to behavioral isolation, specifically sexual selection.

This process leads to the development of a new species within the same habitat. It is an interesting example of how natural selection can drive the evolution of new species, contributing to the biodiversity of an ecosystem.

The study of sympatric speciation provides insights into the mechanisms behind the formation of new species and the role of reproductive isolation in the diversification of organisms.