Question

Are the factors for evolution amd speciation same ?

Answer 1

Dear Student,

There are various factors which are responsible for both, evolution as well as speciation. Some of these factors are given below:
a) Natural selection: All individuals respond to changes in their environment in different ways. The individuals whose genes are favoured by the environment survives and pass the trait to the next generation. Gradually, these genes start to dominate in the population, which lead to speciation and evolution.

b) Geographical isolation: This is the most important factor responsible for the origin of new species. The physical and genetic barriers lead to the development of reproductively isolated species. As a result, there will be no gene flow between the separated groups of population which will ultimately lead to speciation and hence contribute to the evolution.

c) Genetic drift: The gene frequency of a population exhibits random variations generation after generation by chance irrespective of any particular advantage and disadvantage. This phenomenon is known as genetic drift. The random variations may be due to environmental catastrophes or accidental death. This is also a factor for speciation and evolution.

Regards