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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. Give two reasons why populations of this species in Tasmania hav... 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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The populations of red-necked wallabies in Tasmania have not been isolated long enough from populations on the mainland for sufficient genetic differences to accumulate. The ongoing gene flow between these populations prevents speciation.
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Both populations occupy similar habitats which exert similar selection pressures. This ensures that the wallabies continue to adapt similarly, inhibiting the evolution of distinct species.
Step 2
Give two possible reasons for the extinction of this species in mainland Australia.
Answer
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The Eastern Quoll may have gone extinct due to the introduction of invasive species, such as domestic cats, which preyed on quolls, eliminating competition for food and habitat.
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Habitat destruction caused by human activities, such as agriculture and urban development, likely led to the loss of the quoll's habitat, further contributing to their decline.