What is the most common mode of speciation observed in nature, especially when populations are geographically separated?
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Correct answer: Allopatric speciation
Allopatric speciation — speciation through geographic isolation — is widely regarded as the most common mode, because physical barriers prevent gene flow and allow divergent evolution.
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More Evolution and speciation questions
- In allopatric speciation, which force tends to contribute most to genetic divergence between the geographically separated populations?
- Which scenario best illustrates peripatric speciation?
- Which type of speciation can occur even when populations inhabit the same geographic area (i.e., without physical separation)?
- Which factor can facilitate sympatric speciation in plants more readily than in animals?
- What is adaptive radiation?
- Which phenomenon can lead to loss of genetic variation and increase the probability of fixation of deleterious alleles in small populations?