Environmental Science: Earth as a Living Planet (9th Edition)

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 1118427327
ISBN 13: 978-1-11842-732-3

Chapter 9 - Biological Diversity and Biological Invasions - Study Questions - Page 211: 2

Answer

Greater species diversity could be observed in a planet experiencing intense tectonic activity. Movement of plates and continents or creation of mountains and the ocean floor causes geographic isolation. When this occurs, populations of the same species are separated, typically in small groups. Given enough time, these small groups would evolve and adapt to their new habitat, creating a more diverse community.

Work Step by Step

Greater species diversity could be observed in a planet experiencing intense tectonic activity. Movement of plates and continents or creation of mountains and the ocean floor causes geographic isolation. When this occurs, populations of the same species are separated, typically in small groups. Given enough time, these small groups would evolve and adapt to their new habitat, creating a more diverse community.
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