Early in 2012, biologists announced the discovery of a new lizard species - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 23 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 23
Early in 2012, biologists announced the discovery of a new lizard species.
To claim that the lizards belong to a new species, the biologists must show that the lizar... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Early in 2012, biologists announced the discovery of a new lizard species - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 23 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
A. look different from one another.
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Answer
While showing variability among individuals can indicate a new species, it is not sufficient on its own to establish that they belong to a unique species.
Step 2
B. look different from known species.
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Answer
This is an important aspect of species differentiation; however, it alone does not fully support the classification of a new species.
Step 3
C. have similar genetic sequences to known species.
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Similar genetic sequences would suggest a close relationship and not justify claiming that they are a new species.
Step 4
D. do not produce fertile offspring with members of known species.
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This is the most definitive criterion, as reproductive isolation is a key factor in species classification. If they cannot produce fertile offspring with other species, they can be classified as a new species.
