Question:

Which of the following set of animal exhibits discontinuous distribution?

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Discontinuous distribution helps study evolutionary history and continental drift through disjunct populations.
Updated On: Jun 19, 2026
  • Ratitae birds and Lung fishes
  • Ratitae birds, Frogs and Salamanders
  • Protoherians, Frogs and Salamanders
  • Penguins, Lung fishes and Salamanders
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Definition of discontinuous distribution.
- Discontinuous distribution occurs when populations of a species are separated by large geographic distances or barriers.

Step 2: Example species.

- Ratitae birds (ostrich, emu, rhea, kiwi) are flightless birds found on different continents.
- Lungfishes are freshwater fish found in Africa, South America, and Australia, separated by oceans.

Step 3: Factors leading to discontinuous distribution.

- Continental drift (plate tectonics).
- Habitat fragmentation.
- Evolutionary history of the species.

Step 4: Comparison with other options.

- Frogs and salamanders: generally continuous distribution in their respective habitats.
- Protoherians: some continuity in Australia.
- Penguins and salamanders: not matching typical discontinuous pattern globally.

Step 5: Conclusion.

- The set exhibiting clear discontinuous distribution is Ratitae birds and Lung fishes.
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