Question

The genetic difference between two Drosophila species, \(D\). heteroneura and \(D .\) sylvestris, as measured by nucleotide diversity, is about 1.8 percent. The difference between chimpanzees (P. troglodytes) and humans (H. sapiens) is about the same, yet the latter species are classified in different genera. In your opinion, is this valid? Explain why.

Short answer

Explain your reasoning. Answer: Yes, it is valid to classify the primate species in different genera, despite having the same genetic difference as the Drosophila species. The primary reason is that genetic difference alone does not encompass the entirety of species differences. Factors such as morphology, reproductive compatibility, ecology, and evolutionary relationships also contribute to the classification of species, and these factors vary significantly between humans and chimpanzees. Therefore, their classification in different genera is justifiable.

Step-by-step solution

Define nucleotide diversity and genera

Nucleotide diversity is a measure of genetic variation between individuals within a population. It is calculated as the percentage of the nucleotide sites at which two randomly chosen DNA sequences from the population are expected to be different. Genera is a taxonomic category that is higher than species and lower than family. It groups together species that share common characteristics.

Discuss the factors considered while classifying species into different genera

The classification of species into different genera is based on numerous factors, which include: - Morphological similarities and differences: Physical traits, such as size, shape, and structure are compared. - Genetic similarities and differences: Genetic information is compared to reveal relationships between species. - Reproductive compatibility: Ability to interbreed and produce viable offspring is an important factor in classification. - Ecological similarities and differences: Species that share similar habitats, feeding habits, or other ecological factors may be grouped together. - Evolutionary relationships: Species with a common ancestor are likely to be in the same genera.

Compare these factors between the given species

While the genetic difference between the Drosophila species and the primate species is the same, other factors must be considered. - Morphology: Drosophila species are more morphologically similar to each other than chimpanzees and humans. Primates have distinct features, such as larger brains and specialized limbs for locomotion. - Reproductive compatibility: Humans and chimpanzees cannot interbreed and produce viable offspring, whereas Drosophila species may be more likely to do so. - Ecology: Chimpanzees and humans occupy different ecological niches and have varying social structures, whereas the Drosophila species may share more similar habits. - Evolutionary relationships: Chimpanzees and humans have a more distant common ancestor as compared to the Drosophila species.

Form a conclusion and express our opinion on the validity of classifying the primate species in different genera

Considering the factors mentioned above, it is valid to classify chimpanzees and humans in different genera, despite having the same genetic difference as the Drosophila species. The primary reason is that the genetic difference does not encompass the entirety of species differences. Morphology, reproductive compatibility, ecology, and evolutionary relationships also contribute to the classification of species. Since these factors vary significantly between humans and chimpanzees, their classification in different genera is justifiable.