Choose the correct statement about the patterns of biodiversity.

Options

A. The diversity of plants and animals is uniform and evenly distributed throughout the world
B. The tropics harbour more species than the temperature or polar regions
C. Speciation is a function of time as the tropical lattidues have been disturbed by frequent glaciations in the past.
D. Lesser solar energy in the temperature regions contributes to higher productivity and greater diversity in species.

Answer

To solve the question regarding the correct statement about the patterns of biodiversity, we will analyze each of the provided options step by step.

### Step 1: Analyze the First Statement
**Statement**: "The diversity of plants and animals is uniform and evenly distributed throughout the world."

**Analysis**: This statement is incorrect. Biodiversity is not uniform; it varies significantly across different regions due to factors like climate, geography, and ecological conditions. For instance, certain species are adapted to specific environments (e.g., kangaroos in Australia, polar bears in the Arctic), which means they cannot thrive everywhere.

**Hint**: Consider how geographical and climatic differences affect species distribution.

### Step 2: Analyze the Second Statement
**Statement**: "The tropics harbor more species than the temperate or polar region."

**Analysis**: This statement is correct. The tropics, which receive more direct sunlight and have a warmer climate, support a greater diversity of species compared to temperate and polar regions. The abundant sunlight and stable climate conditions in the tropics allow for a higher rate of photosynthesis and, consequently, greater biodiversity.

**Hint**: Think about how sunlight and climate influence the number of species in different regions.

### Step 3: Analyze the Third Statement
**Statement**: "The speciation is a function of time, as the tropical latitudes have been distributed by frequent glaciation in the past."

**Analysis**: This statement is misleading. While speciation does take time, the assertion that tropical latitudes have been affected by frequent glaciation is incorrect. Tropical regions have generally been less impacted by glaciation compared to temperate and polar regions, which have experienced significant glacial periods that affect species distribution.

**Hint**: Reflect on the historical climate changes and their impact on biodiversity in various regions.

### Step 4: Analyze the Fourth Statement
**Statement**: "Lesser solar energy in the temperate region contributes to high productivity and great diversity."

**Analysis**: This statement is also incorrect. Lower solar energy in temperate regions generally leads to lower productivity and biodiversity compared to tropical regions. The tropics, with their higher solar energy, support more plant growth, which in turn supports a greater variety of animal species.

**Hint**: Consider the relationship between solar energy availability and ecological productivity.

### Conclusion
After analyzing all the statements, the correct answer is **the second statement**: "The tropics harbor more species than the temperate or polar region."