Speciation is best defined as the process by which

Speciation is best defined as the process by which

• A. The formation of new species
• B. The extinction of a species
• C. The merging of two species into one
• D. The migration of individuals between populations

Answer: (A)

Speciation is the formation of new species. It happens when populations diverge genetically and become reproductively isolated, so they no longer interbreed to produce fertile offspring. Over time, mutations, natural selection, and genetic drift accumulate differences, often helped by barriers to gene flow such as geographic separation or shifts in mating preferences. This is distinct from extinction (the end of a species) or merging into one species (hybridization that reduces differences), and from migration between populations, which tends to homogenize gene pools and hinder the development of separate lineages.

Speciation is the formation of new species. It happens when populations diverge genetically and become reproductively isolated, so they no longer interbreed to produce fertile offspring. Over time, mutations, natural selection, and genetic drift accumulate differences, often helped by barriers to gene flow such as geographic separation or shifts in mating preferences. This is distinct from extinction (the end of a species) or merging into one species (hybridization that reduces differences), and from migration between populations, which tends to homogenize gene pools and hinder the development of separate lineages.