In: Biology
7. Stebbins decided that the populations of the Ensatina complex are one species because he believed that even though the more southerly populations appear to be pretty distinct, they are still connected genetically via the ring of populations connect these species. If this is the case, hypothesize events that could foster the southerly populations in becoming distinct species.
8.Create a cladogram/phylogenetic tree for the seven subspecies of Ensatina salamanders. Use the third name of the subspecies to label the separate end points.
Hypothesis: the given case is an example of cladogenesis that is splitting of one lineage into different depending upon their physiological differences and demands. The variations in the demands and survival of different places species lead to formation of a new species. Later sexual selection could be a possible reason to form entirely distinct species. This is a case of allopatric speciation as two different geographical location give rise to different species.
8. Phylogenetic tree for the seven subspecies of Ensatina salamanders: