BIOL 1011 Chapter Notes - Chapter 14: Speciation, Reproductive Isolation, Microevolution
Document Summary
14. 1 origin is source of biological diversity. If only microevolution occurred, there would just be very highly adapted organisms still in the original form of life. Mystery of mysteries , one species divides into 2+ species, increases diversity, creates common ancestors between 2 species. Defines species as many populations with members who can reproduce together to make fertile offspring; isolates prokaryotes. Reproductive incompatibility is what separates different species. Reproductive isolation - barriers that keep 2 species from having fertile offspring; necessary for evolution. Some different species are able to mate and have fertile offspring, which would then be called . Morphological species concept - defining species based on physical characteristics; can be used for asexual organisms; people may disagree on what features distinguish species. Identifies species by their niches, which focuses on individuals adaptations to their role in the community. Ex: 2 fish may look alike but are distinguished by their diet and water depth.
