A Hybrid Zone is Properly Defined As

Question

A hybrid zone is properly defined as
A) an area where two closely related species' ranges overlap.
B) an area where mating occurs between members of two closely related species, producing viable offspring.
C) a zone that features a gradual change in species composition where two neighboring ecosystems border each other.
D) a zone that includes the intermediate portion of a cline.
E) an area where members of two closely related species intermingle, but experience no gene flow.

Accepted Answer

A hybrid zone is defined as an area where two closely related species interbreed and produce viable offspring. This is distinct from simply overlapping ranges (option A) or neighboring ecosystems (option C), and it specifically involves gene flow between species. Option D is similar but only applies to a gradual change in a single trait, while option E contradicts the definition by stating there is no gene flow.