Last visit was: 21 Apr 2026, 13:55 It is currently 21 Apr 2026, 13:55
Home
Messages
Tests
Schools
Events
Close
GMAT Club Daily Prep
Thank you for using the timer - this advanced tool can estimate your performance and suggest more practice questions. We have subscribed you to Daily Prep Questions via email.

Customized
for You

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History

Track
Your Progress

every week, we’ll send you an estimated GMAT score based on your performance

Practice
Pays

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History
Not interested in getting valuable practice questions and articles delivered to your email? No problem, unsubscribe here.
Go to My Error Log Learn more
Close
Request Expert Reply
Confirm Cancel
Back to Forum
Create Topic
   1   2   3   4   
805+ (Hard)|   Weaken|         
User avatar
flippedeclipse
User avatar
Joined: 26 Apr 2025
Last visit: 20 Apr 2026
Posts: 105
Own Kudos:
73
Given Kudos: 37
GMAT Focus 1: 655 Q80 V87 DI80
Products:
My Reviews
GMAT Focus 1: 655 Q80 V87 DI80
Posts: 105
Kudos: 73
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 23 Dec 2025, 23:34
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more

Going through the passage first, it's essentially saying that when reviewing the fossil record, widespread species survive longer because they're more resilient to a variety of threats, thus they're more likely to survive than more localized species.

We are asked to weaken this argument with an answer choice.

Option A: This seems like it weakens the argument, but even if subspecies die out, the overall species may persist. Eliminate.
Option B: Extinction events are not the same as evolutionary timescales. One is sudden, one is long-term, and we're trying to weaken the long-term argument. Eliminate.
Option C: This supports localized species but doesn't do anything for the argument for widespread species.
Option D: This provides a very strong argument for why they're so frequent in the fossil record, breaking the assumption that more fossil record frequency = better survivability. Let's hold onto this.
Option E: Even if some species have survived, it does nothing for the actual argument about widespread species. Eliminate.

D is our answer.
User avatar
chasing725
User avatar
Joined: 22 Jun 2025
Last visit: 13 Jan 2026
Posts: 176
Own Kudos:
173
 [1]
Given Kudos: 5
Location: United States (OR)
Schools: Stanford
Schools: Stanford
Posts: 176
Kudos: 173
 [1]
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 23 Dec 2025, 23:47
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more

A. Incorrect : Just because species are vunerable doesn't mean that they will go extinct. Hence, we can eliminate A.

B. Correct : This evidence provdes otherwise to the author's conclusion. hence we can keep b

C. Incorrect : Similar to A. Increase in chances doesn't mean that they will survice.

D. Incorrect : DOesn't impact the reasoning provided. The argument can be weakened

E. Incorrect: Irrelevant to the conclusion, hence we can eliminate E.

Option B.
User avatar
truedelulu
User avatar
Joined: 01 Sep 2025
Last visit: 24 Jan 2026
Posts: 81
Own Kudos:
70
 [1]
Given Kudos: 16
Products:
Forum Quiz
Posts: 81
Kudos: 70
 [1]
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 00:28
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Summary: Fossil record provide information that species with broad habitat ranges tend to survive longer than localized species. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient, hence researchers argue that these species are more likely to live longer than localized species.

Question type: Weaken

A. Incorrect. The risk of speciation and extinction of widespread species doesn't weaken the argument that these species live longer than localized ones.
B. Incorrect. Several widespread species extinct during past events doesn't represent that they do not live longer overall.
C. Incorrect. Advantages of localizes species doesn't weaken the argument.
D. CORRECT. This weakens the argument as the fossil evidence is biased, hence the inference of researchers from the evidence is flaw.
E. Incorrect. Some species doesn't really represent the general picture.
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
vasu1104
User avatar
Joined: 10 Feb 2023
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 388
Own Kudos:
233
Given Kudos: 664
Location: Canada
Products:
Forum Quiz
Posts: 388
Kudos: 233
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 00:39
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
conclusion= analyzing fossil record shows that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with local habitats
reason= widespread species are more resilient to environmental disturbances
widespread species are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales.

need to weaken the conclusion.

A. it says that spread out creates new problems and attack the given reasoning. keep it
B. we dont know whether surviving ones were of broad species or localised species.
C. not concerned about adaption to niche ecosystem.
D. incomplete doesnt mean its wrong.
E. only some but what about the others. doesnt harm. reject

ans is A
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
Kinshook
User avatar
Major Poster
Joined: 03 Jun 2019
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 5,986
Own Kudos:
5,855
Given Kudos: 163
Location: India
Schools: HBS '26 CBS '26 Wharton '26
GMAT 1: 690 Q50 V34
WE:Engineering (Transportation)
Products:
My Reviews
Schools: HBS '26 CBS '26 Wharton '26
GMAT 1: 690 Q50 V34
Posts: 5,986
Kudos: 5,855
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 00:40
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Premise: In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks.

Conclusion: Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Objective: Undermine the reasoning (Weaken the argument)

Pre-thinking:
There is a possibility that despite having larger habitat ranges, species don't persist evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Options:

A. The argument is concerned with evolutionary timescales including localized environmental disturbances and not general extinction. Incorrect

B. The statement does not exclude that possibility that several other species that went extinct had smaller habitat ranges. This may be an exception. It is generic statement and does not undermine the reasoning . Incorrect

C. The statement do somewhat undermines the reasoning by giving a counterexample. But it does undermine the reasoning that species with larger geographic ranges have an advantage over localized species to survive longer. Incorrect

D. Since fossil records are basis for analyzing evolutionary timescales of species, if the specimens overrepresent species with larger geographic ranges then the argument and conclusion does not hold true. The statement undermines the reasoning in the argument. Correct

E. This may be an exception and not a rule. Incorrect

IMO D
User avatar
jkkamau
User avatar
Joined: 25 May 2020
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 226
Own Kudos:
190
Given Kudos: 142
Location: Kenya
Schools: Haas '25
GMAT 1: 730 Q50 V46
GPA: 3.5
Products:
Forum Quiz
Schools: Haas '25
GMAT 1: 730 Q50 V46
Posts: 226
Kudos: 190
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 02:05
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
A. Although this provides an additional attack to the argument it does directly impact the fossil records analysis
B. This does not address what is present but goes back to centuries ago which is irrelevant because what happened before is not guaranteed to happen again
C. This does not weaken the argument directly but provides a counter argument without weakening the evidence at hand
D. Correct. If this is true then findings are unreliable and irrelevant
E. We cannot rely on fraction of something to make a general conclusion about it
Ans D
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
Prakruti_Patil
User avatar
Joined: 24 May 2023
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 126
Own Kudos:
37
Given Kudos: 391
Products:
GMAT Club Tests
Posts: 126
Kudos: 37
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the Updated on: 25 Dec 2025, 07:34
Originally posted by Prakruti_Patil on 24 Dec 2025, 03:17.
Last edited by Prakruti_Patil on 25 Dec 2025, 07:34, edited 1 time in total.
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
The main conclusion is that having a wide range of geography is better than being limited to one space for animals' survival
User avatar
gchandana
User avatar
Joined: 16 May 2024
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 191
Own Kudos:
139
Given Kudos: 170
Location: India
Products:
GMAT Club Tests Forum Quiz
Posts: 191
Kudos: 139
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 03:24
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
A. Sure, we have already seen that they survive longer from the evidence.
B. This comparison with many surviving species isn't relevant here.
C. This says that the localized species are adapted to niche ecosystems and increase their chances of surviving specific changes. This may even strengthen.
D. Yes, this shows that the fossil record is biased. Larger range species leave traces behind across many regions, making it look like they survived longer than localized species, which leave traces in fewer regions, even though they might have survived for the same periods or even for lesser time than localized species. This weakens the reasoning that broader geographic range causes persistence.
E. This, in fact, strengthens the argument that the species with limited geographic ranges are not resilient to changes.

Option D.
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
raffaeleprio
User avatar
Joined: 15 Nov 2020
Last visit: 13 Apr 2026
Posts: 56
Own Kudos:
59
 [1]
Given Kudos: 1
Location: Italy
GPA: 3.71
Posts: 56
Kudos: 59
 [1]
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 03:38
1
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Here we should pay attention to the conlusion:

"Consequently, widespread species with larger habitats tend to persist longer than local species"

So in order to undermine the reasoning here we have to find a reason which poses doubts about this:

Option B if true would undermine this reasoning because gives evidence in the opposite direction of the conclusion.

IMO B!
User avatar
hershehy
User avatar
Joined: 28 Jul 2025
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 24
Own Kudos:
18
Given Kudos: 5
Posts: 24
Kudos: 18
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 03:56
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
IMO D

The whole argument is based on fossil record showing species with broader ranges survive longer
basically telling us that broader range = resilience to local disturbances and then concluding that broader-range species are more likely to persist over evolutionary time

This reasoning depends heavily on the fossil record being a reliable indicator of survival duration.

D directly attacks that foundation:

If the fossil record systematically overrepresents widespread species, then:

They only appear to survive longer ultimately showing sampling bias rather than anythinbg persistent to biologocial resilience.

soo its undermining

Why the others are weaker

A. Irrelevant because it Introduces a new risk (genetic divergence) but doesn’t show that broader-range species actually survive less long overall.

B. Global extinction events are exceptions. The argument is about general evolutionary timescales, and not mass extinctions.

C. I think OOS. Says localized species may survive some changes. That doesn’t negate the claim that broader species are more likely to persist overall.

E. Again, irrelavant Anecdotal counterexamples.
User avatar
Dereno
User avatar
Joined: 22 May 2020
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 1,398
Own Kudos:
1,373
Given Kudos: 425
Products:
GMAT Club Tests
Posts: 1,398
Kudos: 1,373
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 04:15
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
The outcome of the analysis of fossil records : Palaeontologists Found that species with broader geographical range——> has a longer survival span, than species with localised habitats.

Survival span: Species with broader geographical range > Species with Localised Habitats.

Explanation given behind such reasoning is , the greater range makes the widespread species more resilient to localised environmental disturbances. This resilience might have increased the survival span.

Researchers are also with the same view, species with larger habitat range have a greater likelihood to persists over evolutionary time scales than those with a limited habitat range.

We need to find an option which undermines the reasoning.

A) As species extended their range, they experience higher genetic divergence, eventually making them vulnerable to extinction. This option mentions, it’s the range extension, which has turned against its own survival. So, we cannot conclude, range extended species has a greater survival potential than localised habitats. This cast a serious doubt on the central crux, range extended correlated with survival span. Hence, Correct.

B) This option links the species extinction caused due to global catastrophes with the range of geographical habitats. As, global disasters destroy everything which is in that place. That might include both range extending species as well as localised species. Hence, Wrong.

C) If localised species develop certain characteristics/ traits that increase the likelihood of survival due to environmental change. Then, that doesn’t necessarily mean the range extended species doesn’t develop survival traits. This may or may not be also. Hence, nothing conclusive. So, eliminate the option.

D) This option mentions larger fossil remains means a larger survival span. Which may or may not be true. Moreover, the destruction of fossils might have occured due to numerous other factors. We are presented fossils of two different species types, and we are asked to determine the survival span. Hence, Wrong.

E) This specifies a single time frame, and generalised that localised species survive more. May be the extended range species might have been for 100 of millions of years or even much lesser. Hence, Wrong.

Option A
User avatar
msignatius
User avatar
Joined: 28 Aug 2025
Last visit: 09 Apr 2026
Posts: 131
Own Kudos:
98
Given Kudos: 31
Location: India
Concentration: Strategy, Marketing
Schools: ISB '27 NUS '26 INSEAD Jan '26 (S) IESE '26 (D) HEC (S) IMD ESADE'26 Judge '26 LBS '27
GMAT Focus 1: 705 Q86 V85 DI84
GPA: 3.5
WE:Marketing (Consulting)
Products:
My Reviews
Schools: ISB '27 NUS '26 INSEAD Jan '26 (S) IESE '26 (D) HEC (S) IMD ESADE'26 Judge '26 LBS '27
GMAT Focus 1: 705 Q86 V85 DI84
Posts: 131
Kudos: 98
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 04:47
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
For the sake of simplicity, let's just say we're talking about dinosaurs. Our dino-friends weren't always widespread. Some species had more widespread habitats; others more localized. The widespread ones survived longer - this appears to be fact - and the reasons for that are cited at:

Widespread BECAUSE more resilient to environmental disturbances in a region, like droughts or diseases (which I presume is a bit like putting your eggs in one baskets vs multiple baskets argument; more spread, lesser chances that even a series of negative regional events will impact survival).

Now, this forms basis to argue that species with a larger range - more spread out - will "persist over evolutionary timescales". We need to be sure what this means.

"persist over evolutionary timescales"

An evolutionary timescale, to simplify, will be a period long enough to allow evolution - considerable, impactful evolution, that is - than a shorter one. I'd think of parallels like the Jurassic era, which was over millions of years during which species evolved and went extinct.

Now, with this information sorted out, let's see the options, but this time in reverse.

E: Now, here's the thing. We're saying "those with larger habitat ranges are MORE LIKELY to persist evolutionary timescales". This doesn't that the geographically confined species wouldn't has persisted at all, just that they were less likely to. This is a scary choice, as it covers the definition of evolutionary timescales and presents a direct contradiction - but careful reading of the statement will always save your skin.

D: Erm, irrelevant. A bit awkward even. Maybe even silly. Anyway, fossil evidence is incomplete is such a sweeping statement; incomplete means maybe one bone is missing. All else has been unearthed. So, yeah, no gucci. Secondly, overrepresentation is just an assumption, not a truth. "May" "WILL NOT" help us. E-L-I-M-I-N-A-T-E.

C: This highlights that localized species have a better chance of surviving THEIR ENVIRONMENT. It's too contained a logic which won't fly - as we're comparing how these better-adapted species will compare to those with other distribution patterns. Eliminate.

B: Absolute numbers won't help us here. Even if a majority of the species who went extinct were globetrotters, what if these globetrotters made a resounding majority of the total species? Eliminate.

A: A's perfect as a weakener. Now, here's the thing. "Genetic divergence" plays directly against the "evolutionary timescales" element. We need our globetrotters to persist across evolutionary lines, over long periods of times, which genetic divergence goes against principally. "Speciation" is a nice reinforcer of this; speciation just means, diverging into new and other species.

Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
arnab24
User avatar
Joined: 16 Jan 2024
Last visit: 25 Feb 2026
Posts: 96
Own Kudos:
81
Given Kudos: 7
Location: India
Schools: ISB '26
GPA: 8.80
Products:
Forum Quiz
Schools: ISB '26
Posts: 96
Kudos: 81
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 06:08
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
The main conclusion of the argument is Paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One assumption is that resilience leads larger habitat ranges more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales which eventually lead to more survival. Let's check options:

(A) We can keep this option. It is attacking that assumption by saying that they often face high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations leading them to extinction. So reasoning that larger habitat range species persist over evolutionary timescales may not be suitable to survive longer. There is other reason which is leading to more survival.

(B) It's incorrect. It starts comparing only amongst larger habitat range species and no comparison is given with localized habitat species , which as a result not attacking the argument.
(C) There is no comparison between localized and large habitat range species and it's also pointing to specific environment change. So this is incorrect.
(D) Population of larger range habitat species shown in the evidence is incomplete and it may overrepresent species with larger ranges. So this means that it is not the geographic ranges but may be regions. Actual range may be small Let's keep it.
(E) No comparison shown and not attacking the argument. E is incorrect.

So we are left with A and D. So A is more weaking here since reducing the scope of range is not actually attacking the reasoning of the argument.

So A is the correct answer.

Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
linnet
User avatar
Joined: 11 Dec 2025
Last visit: 22 Jan 2026
Posts: 81
Own Kudos:
42
Given Kudos: 1
Posts: 81
Kudos: 42
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 06:22
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
The statement that weakens the argument is A
User avatar
adityaprateek15
User avatar
Joined: 26 May 2023
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 346
Own Kudos:
170
Given Kudos: 323
Location: India
Schools: Ross '26 Tepper '26 McCombs '26
GPA: 2.7
Products:
Forum Quiz
Schools: Ross '26 Tepper '26 McCombs '26
Posts: 346
Kudos: 170
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 06:39
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
The argument's core logic is: Larger Range->Resilience to Local Crises->Longer Survival

To weaken this argument, we need to find a reason that breaks the above link b/w larger range and longer survival or tells us that this might even be a disadvantage.

A. This is a strong weakener. This introduces a negative consequence that the original argument completely ignores.

B. Incorrect. The original argument is about resilience to localized disturbances and not global events, by the name itself, is not localized.

C. Incorrect. This choice strengthens the case of localized species but it doesn't weaken the case against widespread species.

D. Incorrect. This choice attacks the premise (initial observation) but not the conclusion drawn from them.

E. Incorrect. This choices provides an exception to what is generally observed, however, the argument is about a general tendency.

Choice A
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
MANASH94
User avatar
Joined: 25 Jun 2025
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 89
Own Kudos:
63
Given Kudos: 16
Location: India
Schools: IIM IIM ISB
GPA: 2.9
Schools: IIM IIM ISB
Posts: 89
Kudos: 63
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 06:56
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Asking to weaken the reasoning of the argument:

Premise: Fossil records show that widespread species tend to survive longer.
Explanation/Reasoning: Widespread species are more resilient because they are less affected by localized disturbances (if one area is hit by a drought, they survive elsewhere). Conclusion: Larger habitat ranges are the reason these species persist over evolutionary timescales.

Evaluating the answer choices:
A: This suggests a biological vulnerability (speciation), but it doesn't directly counter the fact that widespread species are resilient to the disturbances mentioned in the premise. (Incorrect)
B: This points out exceptions (global extinctions), but the argument is about a general trend over 'evolutionary timescales' not specific events. (Incorrect)
C: This provides a reason why localized species might be good at surviving, but it doesn't disprove that widespread species are better at it. (Incorrect)
D: (Correct) This attacks the validity of the evidence. We are just finding their remains more often across different layers.
E: This provides an example of a localized species surviving, but a single "some" doesn't undermine the "general trend" the researchers are discussing. (Incorrect)


Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
User avatar
Lizaza
User avatar
Joined: 16 Jan 2021
Last visit: 29 Mar 2026
Posts: 240
Own Kudos:
282
Given Kudos: 7
GMAT 1: 710 Q47 V40
GMAT 1: 710 Q47 V40
Posts: 240
Kudos: 282
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 07:10
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Paleontologists claim: broader geo species survive longer because they're less susceptible to highly local issues => all large-area species are more likely to persist in evolutionary timelines.
Well, to weakend this claim we need to find another reason for these species to suffer from the evolution, if we consider the evidence here valid.

We can eliminate B and E, because both of them attack the conclusion by undermining respective validity for wide-range and narrow-range species.
We can eliminate D, since it just attacks the whole idea that sch a phenomenon is 'analyze-able'.
Finally, we can cross out C, since it basically explains how the localized species survive in the evolutionary perspective, but doesn't directly contradict the conclusion.

Therefore, our answer is A, which actually says that while wide range is good for survival against the elements, it leads to poorer evolutionary performance (for a different reason, genetics here) - just as predicted.
User avatar
Gmat860sanskar
User avatar
Joined: 05 May 2023
Last visit: 21 Apr 2026
Posts: 211
Own Kudos:
112
Given Kudos: 79
Schools: ISB '26
GMAT Focus 1: 605 Q82 V78 DI80
Products:
GMAT Club Tests Forum Quiz
Schools: ISB '26
GMAT Focus 1: 605 Q82 V78 DI80
Posts: 211
Kudos: 112
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 07:13
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Bunuel
In analyzing the fossil record, paleontologists have found that species with broader geographic ranges tend to survive longer than those with more localized habitats. One explanation is that widespread species are more resilient to localized environmental disturbances, such as droughts or disease outbreaks. Consequently, researchers argue that species with larger habitat ranges are more likely to persist over evolutionary timescales than those with limited distribution.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the reasoning in the argument above?

A. Species with broad geographic ranges often experience high levels of genetic divergence across subpopulations, making them more vulnerable to speciation and eventual extinction.
B. Several species that went extinct during past global extinction events had significantly larger habitat ranges than many surviving species.
C. Localized species are often better adapted to niche ecosystems and may evolve specialized traits that increase their chances of surviving specific environmental changes.
D. Fossil evidence is incomplete and may overrepresent species with larger ranges, which are more likely to leave behind fossil traces across regions.
E. Some species with limited geographic ranges have persisted for tens of millions of years without significant change.

Gift
12 Days of Christmas Competition
This question is part of our holiday event
Win $40,000 in prizes: courses, tests, and more
Show more
Stimulus :

Premise : Fossil record shows that widespread species survives longer, because they are resilient to local disturbances

Conclusion : Broad range species persist longer in evolutionary time

We need to weaken this, let's look at the options :

A : (Trap) it just shows why species that are widespread could get extinct but there is no comparison between the two types of species ---- Incorrect

B: it just shows anecdotal examples, which is not sufficient ---- Incorrect

C: Irrelevant, doesn't prove anything ----- Incorrect

D: Ok, so if data is flawed then we can't be sure about result derived from it ---- Correct

E : Outliers doesn't prove the Trend ---- Incorrect

Ans - D
User avatar
redandme21
User avatar
Joined: 14 Dec 2025
Last visit: 05 Jan 2026
Posts: 97
Own Kudos:
87
Posts: 97
Kudos: 87
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 07:47
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
A This directly weakens conclusion. Broad range might cause extinction via speciation, not prevent it. Good candidate.

B This doesn't undermine argument because argument is about localized disturbances, not global events.

C It's hypothetical ("often better adapted") and does not address the correlation in fossil record.

D Correct. This undermines premise that they actually survive longer. This directly undercuts factual basis for conclusion. It's a better candidate than A because it attacks the factual basis. Maybe they didn't actually survive longer, it's an illusion due to fossil bias.

E Argument doesn't say no limited-range species persists long, just that broad-range species are more likely to persist.


IMO D
User avatar
kapoora10
User avatar
Joined: 13 Jul 2024
Last visit: 12 Apr 2026
Posts: 109
Own Kudos:
95
Given Kudos: 7
Location: India
Concentration: Real Estate, Sustainability
GMAT Focus 1: 645 Q88 V74 DI84
GMAT Focus 2: 655 Q85 V83 DI80
GPA: 8.03
WE:Corporate Finance (Finance: Investment Management)
Products:
Forum Quiz
GMAT Focus 2: 655 Q85 V83 DI80
Posts: 109
Kudos: 95
12 Days of Christmas GMAT Competition 2025 - Day 7: In analyzing the 24 Dec 2025, 07:55
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Let's assess each option:
A=> Does not directly refute the observed pattern. Eliminate.
B=> Cites exceptions, but isolated examples and not general ones. Eliminate.
C=> Offers an alternative advantage of localized species but this is not enough to counter. Eliminate.
D=> Correct => The bias in the sample is because the fossils of widespread species are found more often in different habitats, which overrepresents the sample then.
E=> Shows that some localized species persists but that can happen with the claim of broader species as well.
   1   2   3   4   
Moderators:
GMATNinja
GMAT Club Verbal Expert
7391 posts
AbhishekP220108
495 posts
bhanu29
358 posts