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CAIE A-Level Biology A2 17.3.3 Speciation Through Genetic Isolation Questions

Explain how genetic isolation stops gene flow so separated populations diverge, then connect reproductive barriers and accumulated differences to speciation in Cambridge A Level…

Syllabus
2028–2030
Course
Biology 9700
Level
A2

Exam points

  • Explain how genetic isolation prevents gene flow and allows separated populations to diverge, linking reproductive isolation to speciation.

CAIE A-Level Biology A2 17.3.3 Speciation Through Genetic Isolation Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 6]

Question (a)

(a)

There are two main aye-aye populations on the island of Madagascar, one in the west and one in the east.

Fig. 1.2 is a map of Madagascar showing the location of the two main populations.

Fig. 1.2

Fig. 1.2

A study into the variation in the DNA nucleotide sequence of aye-ayes showed that there is a large genetic difference between the west population and east population. The two populations of aye-ayes may be evolving into separate species.

[ 6 ]

Question (i)

(i)

With reference to Fig. 1.2, suggest why there is a large genetic difference between the two populations.

[ 5 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Name the type of speciation that is most likely to occur.

[ 1 ]
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