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Multiple Choice
In the context of speciation, what is geographical isolation?
A
It is the genetic divergence of populations due to random mutations over time.
B
It is the adaptation of a species to a new ecological niche without physical separation.
C
It is the process where different species evolve similar traits due to similar environmental pressures.
D
It is the physical separation of populations by barriers such as mountains or rivers, leading to speciation.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Geographical isolation refers to the physical separation of populations by natural barriers such as mountains, rivers, or oceans. This separation prevents gene flow between the populations.
When populations are geographically isolated, they experience different environmental conditions, which can lead to different selective pressures and adaptations.
Over time, the isolated populations may accumulate genetic differences due to mutations, natural selection, and genetic drift.
These genetic differences can become significant enough that, even if the populations were to come back into contact, they might not be able to interbreed successfully, leading to the formation of new species.
This process of speciation through geographical isolation is known as allopatric speciation, which is one of the primary mechanisms by which new species arise.