reproductive isolation (C1)
noun phrase
Pronunciation: /ˌriːprəˈdʌktɪv ˌaɪsəˈleɪʃən/
Definition
A state where a group of organisms is separated from others of the same species, preventing them from interbreeding and eventually leading to the formation of new species.
Examples
Reproductive isolation can occur due to geographical barriers, such as mountains or rivers, that prevent individuals from different groups from mating.
The process of reproductive isolation is a key driver of speciation, as it allows populations to evolve independently and adapt to their local environments.
Reproductive isolation can also be caused by genetic differences, such as chromosomal rearrangements, that make it difficult for individuals from different groups to produce viable offspring.
How to Use reproductive isolation
- reproductive isolation occurs (verb phrase)
- the process of reproductive isolation happens — "Reproductive isolation occurs when a group of organisms is separated from others of the same species, preventing them from interbreeding."
- reproductive isolation leads to (verb phrase)
- the result of reproductive isolation — "Reproductive isolation leads to the formation of new species, as populations that are genetically isolated from one another will eventually become reproductively isolated."
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