Which two statements must be true to define a species?

Question

Organisms must have very similar DNA.
Organisms must be a common ancestor to another organism.
Organisms must be able to produce offspring that can also reproduce.
Organisms must be found in the same place on Earth.

Answer 1

The two statements that must be true to define a species are:

1. Organisms must be able to produce offspring that can also reproduce. - This is known as the biological species concept, which states that a species is defined as a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.

2. Organisms must have very similar DNA. - While not a strict definition in all contexts, genetic similarity is often used to help delineate species, as closely related organisms will typically have a similar genetic makeup.

The other statements about organisms being a common ancestor or being found in the same place on Earth do not universally define a species. Common ancestry refers more to evolutionary relationships rather than a definition of species, and organisms can belong to the same species even if they are geographically separated.