Question

Explain various factors which could lead to the formation of new species.

Answer 1

The formation of a new species by evolution or any genetic modification of the previously existing species in a population is called Speciation. A species can be defined as a group of similar organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.

Speciation causes due to

Geographic isolation: Rise of mountain, continental drifts, river flow change and other topographical changes cause isolation of population resulting in speciation.

Reproductive isolation: Some genetic changes in population due to adaptations for natural selection restrict the individuals to inter breed and reproduce which leads to speciation.