Question

Does geographical isolation of individuals of a species lead to formation of new species ? Provide a suitable explanation.

Answer 1

Geographical barriers may produce a barrier to gene flow because of spatial seperation. This inability of organisms or their gametes to meet leads to reproductive isolation. Adaptations to new conditions or random genetic drift in small populations lead to changes in allele and genotype frequencies. Prolonged separations of populations may result in them becoming genetically isolated even if brought together. In this way new species may arise.