Biology 9700 · AS & A Level · Evolution

Evolution — practice question

DNA barcoding is used to identify species. To make a DNA barcode, a chosen section of DNA is sequenced and then matched against an online reference database of DNA. A region commonly used is a 648 base pairs long section within a mitochondrial gene that codes for the enzyme cytochrome c oxidase I.
(a)[4]

The solitary sandpiper, Tringa solitaria, is a migratory bird. DNA barcoding has shown that about $2.5$ million years ago T. solitaria evolved into two subspecies, Tringa solitaria solitaria and Tringa solitaria cinnamomea. A subspecies is a genetically distinct population within a species that shows some phenotypic differences but is not yet reproductively isolated. T. s. solitaria breed in eastern North America, while T. s. cinnamomea breed in western North America. Suggest and explain how the two subspecies T. s. solitaria and T. s. cinnamomea could have evolved from the original T. solitaria population.

(b)[2]

Fig. 3.1 shows an American oystercatcher, Haematopus palliatus. The black oystercatcher, Haematopus bachmani, has entirely black feathers. DNA barcoding analysis suggests that the American oystercatcher and the black oystercatcher are not separate species. Suggest how DNA barcoding evidence could indicate that the American oystercatcher and black oystercatcher are not separate species.

(c)[2]

Customs officers at airports can use a hand-held DNA barcoding device to identify biological specimens entering or leaving a country. Suggest in what way this helps to protect endangered species.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: geographical separation / barrier separating populations

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI