Purpose
To analyze what will happen if species of a population are split by an earthquake into two separate parts and are unable to communicate or breed with each other. Also, to predict what sort of changes will happen to each population according to the surrounding environment.
Introduction
Reproductive isolation pertains to the fact that in case a population of the same species is separated into two parts and they are not able to breed with one another, genetic makeup will change according to the specific conditions that are unique to each location of the group. Eventually, the whole population of specifies will develop traits that were non-existent before the separation (Losos & Ricklefs, 2009).
Hypothesis/Predicted Outcome
Inability to interbreed due to a naturally occurred separation within one type of species will lead to genetic mutations that are unique to each group.
Methods
In the first stage, the members of the same species are separated into two groups. Each group was observed to see what changes will occur due to the specific physical conditions of the environment. Genetic material was analyzed to determine any mutation that took place on a genetic level.
Results/Outcome
Since each group was suspected of different conditions, the same original species have evolved into two distinct types.
Discussion/Analysis
Due to the separation between two groups and the inability to breed with each other, the mechanical processes of the environment led to changes in the biological information of the species. This can be confirmed by the different types of species that exist in the world today, as it is possible to distinctively see environmental adjustments that the species acquired according to the surrounding physical features of the region.
Reference
Losos, J., & Ricklefs, R. (2009). The Theory of Island Biogeography Revisited. Woodstock, United States: Princeton University Press.