Question

a population of squirrels lived together in a forest. an event occurred that caused the population to diverge into two different species over a long period of time. which of the following is most likely the event that occurred?
there was an increase in the predators in the forest.
a natural disaster occurred that separated squirrels.
the winters were unusually cold in the forest.
a disease affected the squirrel population in the forest.

Explanation:

Speciation (formation of new species) often occurs due to geographic isolation, which prevents gene flow between populations. A natural disaster separating squirrels would create geographic isolation, allowing genetic divergence over time. Increased predators, cold winters, or disease would likely affect survival but not necessarily cause speciation via isolation.

Answer:

B. A natural disaster occurred that separated squirrels.