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Figure 14 shows the natural distribution of a mammal, the red-necked wallaby, Macropus rufogriseus - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2002 - Paper 1
Question 8
Figure 14 shows the natural distribution of a mammal, the red-necked wallaby, Macropus rufogriseus. a. Give two reasons why populations of this species in Tasmania ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 14 shows the natural distribution of a mammal, the red-necked wallaby, Macropus rufogriseus - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 8 - 2002 - Paper 1
Step 1
Give two reasons why populations of this species in Tasmania have not evolved into a separate species despite being geographically isolated by the waters of Bass Strait.
Answer
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Limited Genetic Divergence: The populations of red-necked wallabies in Tasmania have not been isolated long enough from those on the mainland to develop significant genetic differences. The lack of time has hindered the process of speciation.
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Similar Environmental Pressures: The wallabies in Tasmania face similar selection pressures and inhabit similar environments as their mainland counterparts. This similarity prevents the emergence of distinct adaptations that could lead to the formation of a separate species.
Step 2
Give two possible reasons for the extinction of this species in mainland Australia.
Answer
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Spread of Disease: The Eastern Quoll may have been affected by diseases that spread through the mainland populations, potentially leading to significant mortality rates among affected quolls.
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Predation and Habitat Destruction: The introduction of new predators, alongside habitat destruction due to human activities such as farming, likely reduced the quoll’s numbers and its available living spaces, contributing to its extinction.