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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...
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.
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...
Gene Flow02:39

Gene Flow

Gene flow is the transfer of genes among populations, resulting from either the dispersal of gametes or from the migration of individuals.
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.
Hybrid Zones02:29

Hybrid Zones

Hybrid zones are narrow regions where two closely related species interact, mate, and produce hybrids. Relative to either parent species, hybrids may possess distinct phenotypic or genetic differences that impact their survival and reproductive success. The genetic variances introduced by hybridization influence species diversity and speciation processes within the hybrid zone.Gene flow and natural selection are evolutionary mechanisms that shape the outcome of a hybrid zone. Gene flow...

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A Concoction Pipeline for Generating Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) Among Riparian and Aquatic Beetles
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Pattern, process and geographic modes of speciation.

B M Fitzpatrick1, J A Fordyce, S Gavrilets

  • 1Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA. benfitz@utk.edu

Journal of Evolutionary Biology
|September 8, 2009
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

The traditional geographic classification of speciation is becoming obsolete. While rare, sympatric speciation is possible, with advances focusing on divergence processes and geography.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Speciation Research

Background:

  • Traditional speciation research relied on discrete geographic categories (allopatric, parapatric, sympatric).
  • This simplistic taxonomy is increasingly obsolete as scientific sophistication grows.
  • Geographic patterns of speciation are now well-understood.

Discussion:

  • Sympatric speciation, in its broadest sense, appears rare, as sister species are seldom sympatric.
  • However, sympatric speciation is possible in a restricted population genetic sense.
  • Case studies demonstrate divergence without geographic barriers to gene flow.

Key Insights:

  • The number of qualifying sympatric speciation cases depends on the criteria used.
  • Progress in speciation studies stems from understanding divergence processes and geographic influences.
  • Refining nomenclature does not equate to scientific advancement in speciation research.

Outlook:

  • Future research should focus on the mechanisms driving divergence.
  • Understanding the interplay between genetic processes and geographic factors is crucial.
  • Continued investigation into the nuances of speciation beyond simple geographic models is needed.