Evolutionary Biology - Speciation

Flashcards covering key concepts related to speciation, including processes and factors that can lead to the emergence of new species.

Speciation

The process by which new species arise from existing species.

Sympatric Speciation

Speciation that occurs when populations that live in the same geographic area diverge into separate species.

Polyploidy

A condition where an organism has extra sets of chromosomes, commonly found in plants.

Nondisjunction

The failure of homologous chromosomes to separate properly during meiosis, which can lead to polyploidy.

Habitat Differentiation

The process that can lead to sympatric speciation when new ecological niches arise.

Sexual Selection

A mechanism of evolution that can drive sympatric speciation through mate choice.

Gene Flow

The transfer of genetic material between populations, which can be reduced to allow for speciation.

Ecological Niche

The role or function of a species within its environment, which can influence speciation.