A4.1 Evolution and Speciation Part 2

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to speciation, reproductive isolation, geographical isolation, extinction, and the chimpanzee-bonobo evolution example.

Speciation

The formation of new species through evolution; occurs as pre-existing species evolve into new species over time.

Extinction

When there are no living members of a species remaining; extinction reduces the total number of species on Earth.

Reproductive isolation

A barrier which prevents individuals from reproducing; speciation can only occur if populations are reproductively isolated.

Geographical isolation

A form of reproductive isolation caused by physical barriers (rivers, mountains, islands) that prevent interbreeding and can lead to speciation.

Common ancestor

The ancestral population from which species such as chimpanzees and bonobos diverged.

Congo River isolation

Geographical isolation where the Congo River’s widening separated ape populations, leading to different selection pressures and eventual speciation into chimpanzees and bonobos.

Selection pressure

An environmental factor that influences survival and reproduction, leading to differential success among individuals.

Differential selection

Different selection pressures acting on separated populations, causing divergence and speciation.

Speciation by splitting of pre-existing species

The process described as speciation where one existing species splits into two distinct species through reproductive isolation and differential selection.