Speciation

Question 1

Speciation

Answer 1

• Over time, the process of natural selection leads to the development of new species.
• Speciation is the process by which one species splits into two or more separate species.

Question 2

3 steps of speciation

Answer 2

1. Variation
2. Isolation
3. Selection.

Question 2

Variation

Answer 2

Population diversity created by genetic mutations resulting in new alleles that result in beneficial adaptations.

Question 3

Isolation

Answer 3

Isolation happens when different groups within a population are prevented from interbreeding

Question 4

What are the two main ways in which isolation occurs

Answer 4

• Geographical barriers: oceans, rivers, mountain ranges and gorges
• Climatic barriers: rainfall, temperature, sunlight and ocean currents

Question 5

Selection

Answer 5

*Each group is exposed to selection pressures, such as:
* Food / shelter availability
* Environmental conditions
* Biological factors (predators, diseases etc.)
* Since these pressures are different for each group, different traits are advantageous. Eventually, the two groups become so different that they cannot mate any more (or if they can, their offspring are infertile).