Question

the northern red - legged frog, or rana aurora, is found along the western coast from british columbia to northern california. their typical breeding season lasts from january to march. the foothill yellow - legged frog, or rana boylii, is found along the western coast from northern oregon to central california. their typical breeding season lasts from april to july. what mechanism might keep rana aurora and rana boylii from mating?
anatomical isolation
temporal isolation
geographic isolation
behavioral isolation

Explanation:

• Anatomical isolation: Refers to physical differences preventing mating. No info on physical incompatibility here.
• Temporal isolation: Occurs when species breed at different times. \(Rana aurora\) breeds Jan - Mar, \(Rana boylii\) Apr - Jul (different times).
• Geographic isolation: Involves physical separation. Both are on western coast (overlap possible).
• Behavioral isolation: Relates to mating behaviors. No mention of behavioral differences.

Answer:

Temporal isolation.