In: Biology
1) Zebroids, the hybrid offspring of matings between horses and zebras are sterile.
Ans: Hybrid Infertility.
Soln: hybrid is formed but the offspring is sterile and can't reproduce.
2) Asian lions were once common and lived in open grasslands, while Asian tigers preferred forests
Ans: Ecological isolation.
Soln: in this the lion and tigers were isolated from each other and they were in different environments. Hence, Individuals mate in their own preferred habitat, and therefore do not meet individuals of other or related species with different ecological preferences.
3) Female fireflies identify males by the pattern of light they produce. Each species has a unique pattern of flashes.
Ans: Behavioural isolation.
Soln: the fireflies use a mating call which is flashing light to attract a male. Hence, Potential mates meet, but choose members of their own species.
4) Male geese have a penis, while male herons do not. Male herons are unable to fertilize female geese.
Ans: Mechanical Isolation.
Soln: the two animals don’t have the right parts to reproduce. Hence, Copulation is attempted, but transfer of sperm does not take place into the female reproductive tract.
5) When pollen grains from white pine trees land on the female cones of red pine trees, fertilization does not occur.
Ans: Gametic incompatibility.
Soln: Male gamete (pollen grain) transfer takes place, but the egg is not fertilized.