Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

parapatric

Adjective

/ˌpærəˈpæt.rɪk/

Definition

Relating to a mode of speciation in which populations become separated geographically but still have the potential to interbreed.

Examples

Parapatric speciation can occur when two populations of the same species are separated by a mountain range but have adjacent habitats.
Some lizards exhibit parapatric distributions, with one species found in dry areas and another in moist environments that are geographically close.

Meaning

The term parapatric refers to the process in which different species or populations evolve in close proximity due to environmental differences, leading to divergence while maintaining a contact zone.