If a sub-population becomes reproductively isolated in the midst of its parent population, this mode of speciation is called

Options

A. Sympatric sepciation
B. Allopatric speciation
C. Sibling species
D. Mutation

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Speciation**: Speciation is the evolutionary process by which new biological species arise. It typically involves the splitting of a single lineage into two or more genetically independent lineages.

2. **Types of Speciation**: There are four main types of speciation:
- **Allopatric Speciation**: This occurs when a population is geographically isolated, leading to the formation of new species due to the lack of gene flow.
- **Sympatric Speciation**: This occurs when a sub-population becomes reproductively isolated within the same geographical area as the parent population, without any physical barriers.
- **Peripatric Speciation**: This is similar to allopatric speciation but involves a small population that becomes isolated at the edge of a larger population's range.
- **Parapatric Speciation**: This occurs when populations are separated by a gradient of environmental conditions, leading to speciation without complete geographical isolation.

3. **Identifying the Correct Type**: The question specifies that a sub-population becomes reproductively isolated in the midst of its parent population. This indicates that there is no geographical barrier separating the two groups.

4. **Conclusion**: Given that the sub-population is still within the same geographical area as the parent population and has become reproductively isolated, the correct mode of speciation is **sympatric speciation**.

**Final Answer**: Sympatric speciation

---