What speciation mechanism is evidenced by the varied geographic ranges of *Lagothrix* species?
Answer
Allopatric speciation related to environmental fragmentation like river formation.
The current distribution of the four recognized species within the genus *Lagothrix* across the Amazon basin and the Andean foothills strongly suggests that allopatric speciation has been a primary driver of their divergence. This evolutionary process occurs when populations become geographically isolated, preventing gene flow. In this context, historical events such as the formation of new rivers or significant climatic shifts likely created barriers, leading to reproductive isolation between populations and allowing them to subsequently diverge into distinct species adapted to their specific, isolated forest fragments.
Related Questions
What dispersal mechanism is hypothesized for the haplorhine ancestor reaching South America?What defining function does the powerful prehensile tail of the woolly monkey enable during feeding?Which specific family includes *Lagothrix* alongside spider monkeys and howler monkeys?What environmental factor likely drove the evolutionary advantage of the woolly monkey's thick, dense fur?What characteristic of *Lagothrix* locomotion contrasts with the more agile spider monkey (*Ateles*)?What life history feature imposes a significant evolutionary constraint on woolly monkey population recovery?What specific anatomical structure on the prehensile tail enhances its gripping sensitivity?What speciation mechanism is evidenced by the varied geographic ranges of *Lagothrix* species?Which recognized species of woolly monkey is specifically noted in the taxonomy summary as Critically Endangered?What future evolutionary selection pressure might arise if *Lagothrix* is forced into small, fragmented reserves?