Question

read the passage below. in hawaii, there is a species of beetles that has several variations of color, ranging from dark brown to light green, found within the population. recent volcanic activity in hawaii has begun to build up new land, separating the habitat where the beetles live. the population has now become separated, causing the two populations to be isolated and reproducing with one another. prior to all the eruptions, the edge of the forest, where most of the beetles found shelter, had a variety of rock colors and flowering plants. as a result of the lava erupting, one of the isolated populations of beetles now live in an area where the new rock that has formed from the volcano is very scroll more with very little vegetation. part b. which statement supports the answer from part a? a. the beetles are experiencing geographic isolation that is causing both populations to have a disadvantage to their new environments. c. the beetles are experiencing geographic isolation due to the volcanic eruptions building up new rocks, giving each population different advantages in their new environment. b. the beetles are experiencing reproductive isolation due to mating seasons now being different due to the new environment. d. the beetles are experiencing geographic isolation due to variations that will no longer have an advantage in the new environment.

Explanation:

The passage states that volcanic activity has separated the habitat of the beetle population, causing them to be isolated. This is an example of geographic isolation. There is no mention of mating - seasons (reproductive isolation) or that the isolation is causing a disadvantage or that variations no longer have an advantage.

Answer:

B. The beetles are experiencing geographic isolation due to the volcanic eruptions building up new rocks, giving each population different advantages in their new environment.