QUESTION 9 (3 marks)
The biological species concept defines species as a group of organisms that can interbreed to produce fertile offspring.
a) Identify another method for defining a species.
[1 mark]
b) Describe one limitation of the biological species concept and one limitation of the method identified in Question 9a).
[2 marks]
QCAA guide · typeset solution
QCAA sample response and mark allocation
9a) | Phylogenetic species concept | • identifies another method for defining a species [1 mark] |
9b) | A limitation of the biological species concept is that it only applies to sexually reproducing organisms. A limitation of the phylogenetic species concept is that it requires significant morphological differences to allow for appropriate evaluation. | • identifies a limitation of the biological species concept [1 mark] • identifies a limitation of the method identified in Question 9a) [1 mark] |
QCAA sample response and marking criteria reproduced from the official guide.
Compare your working with the guide above.