Question

A terrestrial species P is found in both India and West Africa and nowhere else, while a marine species Q is found in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The two species have similar generation times. An ecologist builds haplotype networks based on DNA sequences from these species, where each circle represents one haplotype and each dash (--) represents a mutation. Which one of the following inferences is best supported by the haplotype networks shown?
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• A. P has high dispersal ability; Q has low dispersal ability.
• B. Q has high dispersal ability; P has low dispersal ability.
• C. P and Q have equal dispersal abilities.
• D. The genetic structure is not influenced by dispersal ability.

Hint:

When analyzing haplotype networks, consider both the number of haplotypes and their connectivity to infer the dispersal ability of species. More connected and numerous haplotypes generally suggest a higher dispersal potential.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Examine the haplotype networks. The network for species P shows fewer haplotypes with limited mutations, indicating fewer genetic variations and suggesting a low dispersal ability across large distances. In contrast, species Q's network exhibits more haplotypes with more extensive mutations and connections, indicative of a higher dispersal ability. Step 2: Relate haplotype diversity to dispersal ability. Species Q’s broader range of haplotypes and the presence in diverse marine environments supports a higher dispersal capability. Species P's restricted haplotype spread between only two distant regions points to a more limited dispersal capacity.