Biology 1201A Lecture Notes - Lecture 14: Species Problem, Reproductive Isolation, Speciation

• School: Western University
• Department: Biology
• Course: Biology 1201A
• Professor: Aleksandra Zecevic

Document Summary

18. 1a the morphological species concept is a practical way to identify species that distinguish them from individuals of other species. Morphological species concept: the idea that all individuals of a species share measurable traits. 18. 1b the biological species concept is based on reproductive isolation. Biological species concept: groups of interbreeding natural populations that are reproductively. Process of speciation is frequently defined as the evolution of reproductive isolated from other such groups. Defines species in terms of population genetics and evolutionary theory. Only matings within the species produce viable offspring isolation between populations: genetic cohesiveness, populations of the same species experience gene flow, genetic distinctness, populations of different species cannot exchange genetic information. Explains why individuals of a species generally look alike. Does not apply to the many forms of life that reproduce asexually, or extinct organisms. 18. 1c the phylogenetic species concept focuses on evolutionary history evolutionary tree.