Question

Define the term- speciation

Answer 1

Speciation: Speciation is the process through which new species arise from the existing species.

Process of speciation:

1. Three factors that can cause speciation are natural selection, geographical isolation, and genetic drift.
2. These factors create reproductive isolation among individuals of the same species.
3. Reproductive isolation means that there is no gene flow between two populations.

Example of speciation:

1. The presence of a geographical barrier like a mountain does not let the individuals of the same species present on the opposite side of the mountain sexually reproduce or interbreed.
2. Therefore, there is no exchange of genes between these two populations present on two different sides of the mountain.
3. The mountain has created reproductive isolation. Gradually, the individuals (populations) on the opposite sides of the mountain will become two different species.