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Related Concept Videos

Formation of Species01:31

Formation of Species

Speciation describes the formation of one or more new species from one or sometimes multiple original species. The resulting species are discrete from the parent species, and barriers to reproduction will typically exist. There are two primary mechanisms, speciation with and without geographic isolation—allopatric and sympatric speciation, respectively.Allopatric SpeciationIn allopatric speciation, gene flow between two populations of the same species is prevented by a geographic barrier, like...
Genetics of Speciation02:16

Genetics of Speciation

Speciation is the evolutionary process resulting in the formation of new, distinct species—groups of reproductively isolated populations.The genetics of speciation involves the different traits or isolating mechanisms preventing gene exchange, leading to reproductive isolation. Reproductive isolation can be due to reproductive barriers that have effects either before or after the formation of a zygote. Pre-zygotic mechanisms prevent fertilization from occurring, and post-zygotic mechanisms...
Speciation Rates01:07

Speciation Rates

Speciation can proceed at markedly different rates, and evolutionary biologists commonly describe these differences through the models of gradualism and punctuated equilibrium. Both patterns explain how new species arise, but they differ in the tempo and continuity of evolutionary change. In both cases, evolutionary change arises from heritable variation within populations, with natural selection often shaping traits that improve survival and reproduction under specific environmental conditions.
Introduction to Plant Diversity02:22

Introduction to Plant Diversity

From Water to Land
The Evidence for Evolution02:55

The Evidence for Evolution

Genetic variations accumulating within populations over generations give rise to biological evolution. Evolutionary changes can result in the formation of novel varieties and entire new species. These changes are responsible for the diverse forms of life inhabiting the planet. The evidence for evolution suggests that all living organisms descended from common ancestors.The collection of fossils within sedimentary rocks give a record of common ancestry and often depicts the history of evolution.
Understanding Species and Reproductive Barriers01:17

Understanding Species and Reproductive Barriers

A species is a group of organisms that interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Typically, individuals of the same species appear similar and share common characteristics due to their highly similar genomes. However, not all organisms that look alike are members of the same species. Various mechanisms keep most species discrete. While some mechanisms prevent reproductive behavior and fertilization (pre-zygotic isolation), others prevent the production of fertile offspring after mating has...

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Introduction. Speciation in plants and animals: pattern and process.

Richard J Abbott1, Michael G Ritchie, Peter M Hollingsworth

  • 1School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9TH, UK. rja@st-andrews.ac.uk

Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological Sciences
|June 28, 2008
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Species definitions and origins remain debated in evolutionary biology. Hybridization can lead to new species, challenging traditional concepts and advancing our understanding of speciation.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Speciation Research
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The definition of species and their origin remain contentious in evolutionary biology.
  • The biological species concept faces challenges due to observed hybridization and gene flow between recognized species.
  • Understanding factors limiting gene flow is crucial for defining species and their origins.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the contentious issues surrounding species definitions and origins.
  • To investigate the role of hybridization in the origin of new species.
  • To examine the factors and conditions that lead to reproductive isolation and speciation.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current research on speciation.
  • Analysis of genetic factors limiting gene flow between populations.
  • Examination of case studies in hybrid speciation and species radiations.

Main Results:

  • Hybridization can occur between closely related species without loss of identity, and can lead to new species formation.
  • Significant advances are being made in understanding animal and plant speciation.
  • The collection of papers addresses key aspects of speciation, including hybrid speciation and species radiations.

Conclusions:

  • Current research is significantly advancing the understanding of speciation processes.
  • Hybridization plays a notable role in the origin of new species, necessitating a broader species concept.
  • Further research into the genetics of reproductive isolation is essential for resolving debates on species definitions.