speciation

Gene pool

The collection of genes present in the individuals of a population.

Genetic drift

Random changes in allele frequencies in a population due to chance events.

Bottleneck effect

A sudden reduction in population size leading to genetic changes.

Founder effect

Establishment of a new population by a small group from the original population.

Non-random mating

Selection of mates based on specific phenotypic traits.

Mutation

A random variation in the gene pool due to changes in the genetic material.

Gene flow (migration)

Movement of genes between interbreeding populations.

Natural selection

Process where certain alleles are favored for reproduction based on fitness.

Sexual selection

Selection of mates based on specific traits, often through competition or choice.

Speciation

Formation of new species through reproductive isolation and genetic divergence.

Reproductive isolation

Prevention of gene flow between populations leading to speciation.

Pre-zygotic isolating mechanisms

Barriers preventing mating or fertilization between species.

Post-zygotic isolating mechanisms

Barriers occurring after fertilization, affecting hybrid viability or fertility.

Sympatric speciation

Speciation occurring within the same habitat, often through non-random mating or polyploidy.

Allopatric speciation

Speciation due to geographic isolation leading to genetic divergence.

Adaptive radiation

Diversification of a population into different ecological niches.

Divergent evolution

Evolution where species become distinct from a common ancestor.

Convergent evolution

Independent evolution of similar traits in different species.

Gradualism

Evolutionary change occurring slowly over time.

Punctuated equilibrium

Long periods of genetic stability followed by rapid evolutionary changes.

Impact of human activities

Influence of human actions on ecosystems, including habitat destruction and fragmentation.