Which of the following is NOT a common mechanism by which species become reproductively isolated and form new species?

• A. Behavioral isolation
• B. Photosynthetic isolation
• C. Mechanical isolation
• D. Temporal isolation

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of reproductive isolation. Reproductive isolation refers to mechanisms that prevent different species from interbreeding and producing viable offspring, which is a key factor in speciation.
2. Step 2: Review the common mechanisms of reproductive isolation. These include behavioral isolation (differences in mating behaviors), mechanical isolation (incompatibility of reproductive structures), and temporal isolation (differences in timing of reproduction).
3. Step 3: Analyze the term 'photosynthetic isolation' provided in the question. Photosynthesis is a process by which organisms convert light energy into chemical energy, and it is not related to reproductive isolation or speciation mechanisms.
4. Step 4: Compare 'photosynthetic isolation' with the other options. Behavioral, mechanical, and temporal isolation are all established mechanisms of reproductive isolation, while photosynthetic isolation does not fit within this context.
5. Step 5: Conclude that 'photosynthetic isolation' is not a mechanism of reproductive isolation, as it is unrelated to the processes that prevent interbreeding between species.