isolating mechanism

A Dictionary of Biology | 2004 | 609 words | Copyright

isolating mechanism Any of the biological properties of organisms that prevent interbreeding (and therefore exchange of genetic material) between members of different species that inhabit the same geographical area. These mechanisms include seasonal isolation, in which the breeding seasons of the different populations do not overlap; and behavioural isolation, in which different courtship behaviour in the populations ensures that mating takes place only between members of the same species. Both these are examples of premating mechanisms. Postmating mechanisms include hybrid infertility and inviability.

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