In a rather infamous case of species transplantation, starlings were introduced into North America from Europe in 1890 by an eccentric Shakespeare fan. Though the actual range of starlings was originally in the Eastern Hemisphere, it is clear that North America was part of its __________ range.

• A. biotic
• B. biogeographical
• C. natural
• D. ecological
• E. potential

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of species transplantation: This refers to the introduction of a species into a new habitat where it is not native. In this case, starlings were introduced to North America from Europe.
2. Define the term 'potential range': This is the geographical area where a species could potentially live and thrive, given the right conditions, even if it is not currently found there.
3. Differentiate between 'actual range' and 'potential range': The actual range is where the species currently exists, while the potential range includes areas where the species could survive if introduced.
4. Analyze the context: Starlings were originally from the Eastern Hemisphere, but they were introduced to North America, indicating that North America was not part of their actual range but could be part of their potential range.
5. Conclude that North America was part of the starlings' potential range, as they were able to survive and establish populations there after being introduced.