Allopatric Speciation | LB 2

These flashcards cover key concepts of parapatric and peripatric speciation, including definitions, processes, and notable biologists' contributions.

What is parapatric speciation?

A speciation pattern where subpopulations evolve reproductive isolation while continuing to exchange genes, often resulting in hybrid zones.

What happens in a hybrid zone during parapatric speciation?

Gene flow occurs between two populations that have developed different allele frequencies but have not completely diverged.

What are the stages of genetic differentiation in parapatric speciation?

1. Genetically uniform population, 2. Clinal variation, 3. Formation of subspecies with hybrid zones, 4. Complete genetic differentiation.

Who suggested that allopatric speciation would be accelerated in small, isolated populations?

Ernst Mayr and Stephen Jay Gould.

What is the primary focus when discussing parapatric speciation?

To view allopatric speciation in a more nuanced manner.

What does 'peripatric' refer to in the context of speciation?

A variation of allopatric speciation that occurs in small, isolated populations at the edge of a species' geographical range.

How does peripatric speciation differ from traditional allopatric speciation?

It specifically involves the peripheral populations that can diverge more quickly due to isolation.

What is an example of the relationship between clines and speciation?

As populations become genetically different along a geographic axis, they may develop reproductive isolation.

In a scenario of evolutionary divergence, what might happen if a geographical barrier disappears?

The two daughter species may not have completely diverged before the barrier was removed, leading to possible hybridization.

What is the significance of understanding hybrid zones in speciation?

They illustrate the complexities of species relationships and the processes involved in speciation.