Question

What is speciation ? List four factors that could lead to speciation. Which of these cannot be a major factor in the speciation of a self pollinating plant species ? Explain.

Answer 1

(i) Speciation: The process of formation of a new species from a pre-existing one. 

(ii) Four factors :

Genetic drift

Mutation / Drastic change in the genes or DNA

Natural selection

Geographical isolation

(iii) Geographical isolation cannot be a major factor in the speciation of a self-pollinating plant species. 

(iv) Reason : Physical barrier cannot be created in self-pollinating plants