Question

A student argues that two species of birds are the same species because they have similar body structures, similar DNA, and similar beaks. Another student argues that the birds are different species because they have different color patterns and have a different mating season. Which piece of evidence supports the second student's argument?
The birds have similar body structure.
The birds have similar beaks.
The birds have different color variations.
The birds have different mating seasons.

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct option is D) The birds have different mating seasons.

Explanation:

Organisms belonging to the same species will have the ability to reproduce and  produce fertile offsprings. As the birds have different mating seasons, this means that the birds are not able to mate and reproduce at the same time. Thus phenomenon supports the second student's argument.

Answer 2

The piece of evidence that supports the second student's argument, that the birds are different species, is the birds have different mating seasons.

Explanation:

A major characteristic of species is that its individuals (or sexes) can mate to produce fertile offsprings. The two birds populations have different mating seasons hence they are reproductively isolated by time difference in mating seasonality. Gene flow between two populations will, therefore, be hindered, which is a recipe for them to become different species over time - speciation.