Chapter 4: Problem 13

How may evolution lead to the development of new species (speciation)?

Short Answer

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Evolution can lead to the development of new species (speciation) through processes like genetic drift, gene flow, mutation, and non-random mating. Factors like environmental changes and geographical or reproductive isolation can further contribute to speciation. Speciation might also occur at different rates, according to the theories of phyletic gradualism and punctuated equilibrium.

Step by step solution

Understand Evolutionary Factors

Conceptualize the factors contributing to evolution. These are essentially changes in heritable traits of a species over time due to: genetic drift (random changes in gene frequency), gene flow (transfer of genetic variation from one population to another), mutation (random changes in genes), and non-random mating (selective mating).

Recognizing the Role of Environmental Factors

Understand how an environmental change can lead to the evolution of new species. Species often adapt to their environment through evolutionary changes. Over time, these environmental adaptations may result in the formation of new and different species. This is known as adaptive radiation.

Understanding Evolutionary Isolation

Recognize that geographical or reproductive isolation can also lead to speciation. Populations of the same species can become geographically isolated (e.g., by mountain ranges or rivers) and evolve independently. Over time, these isolated populations can become distinct species. Similarly, reproductive isolation, when members of two populations cannot interbreed, can also lead to speciation.

Knowledge on Speed of Evolutionary Changes

Consider how evolutionary changes can occur at different rates. In phyletic gradualism, new species emerge gradually through steady transformation of the whole population. In contrast, punctuated equilibrium proposes that new species appear rapidly following periods of little change.

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How may evolution lead to the development of new species (speciation)?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand Evolutionary Factors

Recognizing the Role of Environmental Factors

Understanding Evolutionary Isolation

Knowledge on Speed of Evolutionary Changes

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