Week 6: Speciation
1. Defining a Species
Biological Species Concept
A species is a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring in nature.
• Appearance alone does not define species.
• Two organisms must reproduce fertile offspring to be considered the same species.
🐿 Example: Grand Canyon Squirrels
Squirrel Species Reproductive Capability Conclusion
Kaibab & Abert Squirrels Cannot reproduce together Different species
2. Investigating Species Differences
Asking Scientific Questions
• What behaviors or habitats do the squirrels use?
• Can their offspring reproduce?
• Are there genetic or physical barriers?
Planning an Investigation
• Observe mating, test offspring fertility.
• Use genetic testing and behavioral comparisons.
• Consider other related species for comparison.
3. What is Speciation?
Definition
Speciation is the formation of a new species when populations can no longer interbreed and produce fertile
offspring.
Requirements for Speciation:
Condition Explanation
Reproductive Isolation Populations can’t reproduce together
Genetic Mutation Build-up Mutations accumulate over generations
Geographic/Behavioral Split Physical separation or different mating behavior develops
4. Gene Flow and Speciation
Gene Flow
• The movement of alleles between populations (e.g., migration, pollen, humans).
• Increases genetic diversity and prevents speciation.
When Gene Flow Stops
• Populations evolve independently.
• Over time, become genetically distinct = speciation occurs.
5. Barriers to Reproduction (Reproductive Isolation)
Barrier Type Example
Geographic Grand Canyon separates squirrel populations
Behavioral Different mating dances or flashing patterns in fireflies
Timing (Temporal) Coral releases gametes at different times
Anatomical Flower shapes attract different pollinators
Genetic Incompatibility Sea urchin gametes don’t match → fertilization fails
→ These prevent successful reproduction and lead to speciation.
6. Human Influence on Evolution
Do Humans Affect Evolution?
Influence Description
Overfishing Smaller cod survive → shift in body size trait
Antibiotic Misuse Leads to antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Habitat Destruction Reduces biodiversity; forces rapid adaptation
Selective Breeding Alters gene pool of domesticated species
Impact on Speciation/Extinction
• Forced adaptation or extinction due to rapid environmental change.
• Loss of gene flow or reproductive isolation due to habitat fragmentation.
7. Other Evolutionary Mechanisms
Genetic Drift
A random change in allele frequency due to chance events, not natural selection.
• Affects small populations the most.
• Leads to loss of diversity, even if traits are not advantageous.
8. Reflection & Application
Questions for Thought
• Is your class population now genetically distinct? Why?
• Could your group now represent a new species?
Example Quiz Warm-Up
Which is an example of behavioral isolation?
A. Two birds with different mating dances →