A new species can arise in a single generation __________.

• A. through geographic isolation
• B. in a very large population spread over a large area
• C. if allopatric speciation occurs
• D. if adaptive radiation occurs
• E. if a change in chromosome number creates a reproductive barrier

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of speciation, which is the formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.
2. Recognize that speciation can occur through various mechanisms, including geographic isolation, allopatric speciation, and adaptive radiation.
3. Learn about the role of chromosomal changes in speciation. A change in chromosome number can lead to reproductive isolation, preventing interbreeding with the original population.
4. Explore how reproductive barriers contribute to speciation. These barriers can be prezygotic (before fertilization) or postzygotic (after fertilization), and chromosomal changes often result in postzygotic barriers.
5. Consider examples of speciation through chromosomal changes, such as polyploidy in plants, where an increase in chromosome number can lead to the formation of a new species.