Sympatric speciation

Definition

Sympatric speciation occurs when new species arise from a single ancestral species without any physical barriers separating their habitats. This can happen through factors like polyploidy (having extra sets of chromosomes) or divergent selection pressures.

Analogy

Imagine a group of students in the same classroom who start developing different interests and hobbies. Despite being in close proximity, they become so distinct that they form separate social circles.

Related terms

Polyploidy: A condition where an organism has more than two complete sets of chromosomes.

Adaptive radiation: The rapid diversification of species into various ecological niches.

Ecological isolation: When two closely related species occupy different habitats within the same geographic area and do not interact with each other.