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Latitudinal gradients

Problem

Scientists discover a new planet that is very similar to Earth. They find that equatorial regions are very species rich, but polar regions have much less diversity in species. The scientists then study the history of climate and environmental changes across the planet. They conclude that there is evidence that speciation on that planet is a function of time.
Which of the following observations could the scientists have made to support this theory?
Choose 1 answer: