Reproductive Isolation

Postzygotic isolation

A reproductive barrier that occurs after the formation of a zygote, preventing successful reproduction.

Hybrid inviability

A condition where hybrid offspring fail to develop properly or die before reaching reproductive maturity.

Postzygotic isolation

A reproductive barrier that occurs after the formation of a zygote, preventing successful reproduction.

Hybrid inviability

A condition where hybrid offspring fail to develop properly or die before reaching reproductive maturity.

Hybrid sterility

A condition in which hybrid offspring are unable to reproduce successfully, even if they reach maturity.

Prezygotic barriers

Reproductive barriers that prevent the mating and fertilization between species before a zygote is created.

Gene flow

The transfer of genetic material between populations, which can affect allele frequencies.

Genetic drift

The random changes in allele frequencies in a population over time, often due to chance events.

Bottleneck effect

A significant reduction in population size due to environmental events or human activities leading to a loss of genetic diversity.

Founder effect

Genetic variation that occurs when a small population establishes a new habitat, leading to a limited gene pool.

Sexual selection

A natural selection process where individuals are chosen as mates based on certain traits, enhancing reproductive success.

Intrasexual selection

A form of sexual selection where individuals of the same sex compete for access to mates.