Review the Chapter Concepts on page \(457 .\) All these pertain to the principles of population genetics and the evolution of species. Write a short essay describing the roles of mutation, migration, and selection in bringing about speciation.

Question: Describe the roles of mutation, migration, and selection in bringing about speciation. Answer: Speciation, the process of forming new species, is driven by three main factors: mutation, migration, and selection. Mutation introduces genetic variation by altering an organism's DNA sequence, which can potentially lead to changes in phenotype. This genetic variation allows populations to adapt to their environment. As populations become isolated, genetic divergence occurs through different mutations, eventually leading to speciation. Migration, the movement and gene exchange between populations, can also promote speciation when barriers limit gene flow, allowing populations to develop genetically distinct characteristics. Natural selection, the differential survival and reproduction of individuals with varying phenotypes, shapes populations over successive generations and contributes to the divergence of populations through several selection types, such as directional, stabilizing, and disruptive selection. Overall, mutation, migration, and selection are essential forces in the evolution of species and their continued study contributes to the understanding and preservation of biodiversity.