Biogeographic isolation refers to the separation of populations of organisms by geographic barriers, preventing them from interbreeding and sharing genetic material. This isolation can occur through various natural phenomena such as mountains, rivers, or oceans that create distinct habitats.
When populations are biogeographically isolated, they can evolve independently over time, leading to the development of unique characteristics and adaptations suited to their specific environments. This process is a key factor in the emergence of new species, as isolated populations can undergo genetic drift and natural selection, resulting in significant genetic divergence.
For example, the species found on islands often display unique traits due to their isolation from mainland species. Understanding biogeographic isolation is essential in fields like ecology and evolutionary biology, as it sheds light on how species diversify and adapt to different ecological niches.