Microevolution and Speciation Study Guide

Flashcards covering key concepts related to microevolution, macroevolution, and speciation.

Microevolution

Change in allele frequency in a population over time.

Macroevolution

Broad patterns of evolutionary change above the species level.

Speciation

The process by which one species splits into two or more species.

Biological species concept

A species is a group of populations whose members have the potential to interbreed in nature and produce viable, fertile offspring.

Gene flow

The transfer of genetic material between populations, which can hold populations together genetically.

Morphological species concept

Defines a species by structural features and applies to both sexual and asexual species.

Ecological species concept

Views a species in terms of its ecological niche and unique adaptations.

Hybridization

The process that occurs when two distinct species interbreed, which can lead to the production of viable, fertile offspring.

Niche

The role or function of an organism or species within an ecosystem.