Question

Give 2 examples of different species concepts, define them, and discuss why one would be preferred over the other in some areas.

Answer 1

1. The ecological species concept- In this concept, a species is defined on the basis of its ecological niche which it inhabits. It basically focusses on unique adaptations to particular roles in a biological community. For example, two species may be similar in appearance but distinguished based on what they eat or where they live.

Strength- considers the role of species in an ecosystem.

Weakness- geographically widespread populations that don't actually interbreed may be considered as same species.

2. Biological species concept- It was defined by Mayr. According to him " species are a group of interbreeding organisms that are reproductively isolated from other such groups". For example, a community of interbreeding organisms is in population genetic terms, a gene pool.

strength- either individual can or cannot produce viable offsprings.

weakness- many living species have never been observed mating and then those offsprings mating and raising viable. Fossils certainly cant mate any longer although they need to get classified. Some living organisms example bacteria don't have sex but can swap genetic material among themselves.