What criterion does the Biological Species Concept use to identify species?

• A. Reproductive isolation
• B. Ecological niche
• C. Genetic similarity
• D. Morphological differences

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the Biological Species Concept (BSC), which defines a species as a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.
2. Recognize that the key criterion used by the BSC to identify species is reproductive isolation. This means that members of a species are reproductively isolated from other groups, preventing gene flow between them.
3. Consider the implications of reproductive isolation, which can occur due to various barriers such as geographical, behavioral, temporal, or mechanical factors.
4. Differentiate reproductive isolation from other concepts like ecological niche, genetic similarity, and morphological differences, which are used by other species concepts.
5. Reflect on examples of reproductive isolation in nature, such as different mating seasons or incompatible reproductive organs, to solidify your understanding of how the BSC identifies species.