speciation Definition
the formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.
Using speciation: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "speciation" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Speciation occurs when populations of a species become isolated and evolve independently.
Example
The study of speciation is important for understanding the diversity of life on Earth.
Example
Geographic barriers can lead to speciation by preventing gene flow between populations.
speciation Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for speciation
Phrases with speciation
the process of speciation that occurs with geographic isolation
Example
Allopatric speciation can occur when a river or mountain range separates two populations of a species.
the process of speciation that occurs without geographic isolation
Example
Sympatric speciation can occur when a mutation leads to a reproductive barrier between two populations of a species.
the diversification of a group of organisms into forms filling different ecological niches
Example
The finches on the Galapagos Islands underwent adaptive radiation, resulting in the development of different beak shapes for different food sources.
Summary: speciation in Brief
The term 'speciation' [ˌspesiˈeɪʃ(ə)n] refers to the process of forming new and distinct species during evolution. This occurs when populations of a species become isolated and evolve independently, leading to divergence and differentiation. Examples include allopatric and sympatric speciation, as well as adaptive radiation, which results in the diversification of a group of organisms into forms filling different ecological niches.
