Table of Contents
Speciation
Speciation – Meaning: Speciation is the process by which new species of organisms evolve. This can happen when populations of organisms become isolated from each other and start to evolve separately. Over time, they may become so different that they can no longer interbreed, and can be considered separate species.
Types of Speciation
There are three types of speciation: allopatric, parapatric, and sympatric.
Allopatric speciation is when two populations of the same species become geographically isolated from each other and evolve into two different species. This can happen when a population is split by a geographical barrier, such as a mountain range or a river, or when they become isolated by a different environment, such as a desert or an ocean.
Parapatric speciation is when two populations of the same species become geographically isolated from each other, but they can still interbreed. This can happen when populations split by a geographical barrier, such as a mountain range or a river, but they are still able to move between the two populations.
Sympatric speciation is when two populations of the same species become geographically isolated from each other and they can no longer interbreed. This can happen when populations split by a geographical barrier, such as a mountain range or a river, but they are no longer able to move between the two populations.
Factors Affecting Speciation
There are many factors that can affect the speciation of a species. Some of the most important factors include geographical isolation, reproductive isolation, and mutation.
Geographical isolation can play a major role in speciation. As it can prevent two populations of the same species from mating with each other. This can be due to geographical features such as mountains or rivers, or to humans deliberately separating two populations.
Reproductive isolation can also be a major factor in speciation. If two populations of a species are unable to mate with each other, they will eventually become separate species. This can be due to differences in their appearance, behaviour, or ecology.
Mutation can also be a major factor in speciation. If a mutation occurs in a population that results in a new trait, that trait may spread through the population. If the mutation is beneficial, it may lead to the formation of a new species.
