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Question #46917
The Question
According to Ernst Mayr’s Biological Species Concept, the 'species' rank is fundamentally defined by reproductive isolation. However, when two closely related populations—historically classified as distinct species—experience secondary contact and establish a stable hybrid zone through continuous gene flow, it creates an evolutionary paradox. Which of the following statements regarding this phenomenon is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The continuous gene flow between the populations represents a direct violation of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, homogenizing allele frequencies.
- B.
The emergence of the hybrid zone validates the static nature of the Linnaean hierarchy by naturally delineating a new, reproductively isolated genus.
- C.
It exposes the inherent limitation of the Biological Species Concept when applied to taxa undergoing active introgression.
- D.
It demonstrates that while taxonomic ranks are rigid human constructs, the underlying evolutionary gene pool is inherently fluid and dynamic.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Taxonomic Hierarchical Rank|Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium Variables|Gene Flow
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize taxonomic ranks as absolute biological realities rather than artificial constructs.
The trap lies in Option B, which uses authoritative-sounding terminology ('validates static nature', 'delineating a new genus') to mask a fundamental biological fallacy.
The question forces the student to synthesize macro-evolutionary taxonomy (Mayr's concept) with micro-evolutionary population genetics (Hardy-Weinberg variables like gene flow).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | The Living World - Class 11 |
| Concept | Taxonomic Hierarchical Rank |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |