Question

Which is the most important factor for evolution of new species?

• A. Geographic isolation
• B. Extensive in-breeding
• C. Extensive out-breeding
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is A Geographic isolation

Geographical isolation: The separation of two populations of the same species or breeding group by a physical barrier, such as a mountain or body of water.

Geographical isolation may ultimately lead to the populations becoming separate species by adaptive radiation. In the fruit fly example, some fruit fly larvae were washed up on an island, and speciation started because populations were prevented from interbreeding by geographic isolation. Scientists think that geographic isolation is a common way for the process of speciation to begin. Rivers change course, mountains rise, continents drift, organisms migrate and what was once a continuous population is divided into two or more smaller populations. It doesn't even need to be a physical barrier like a river that separates two or more groups of organisms. It might just be unfavourable habitat between the two populations that keeps them from mating with one another. This is one of the most important factor for speciation. Thus, option A is correct.