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Endemic Species
Linked via "allopatric speciation"
Causes of Endemism
The genesis of endemic species is generally attributed to two primary, often overlapping, mechanisms: allopatric speciation driven by geographic barriers, and ecological specialization within a stable or relic habitat.
Geographic Isolation and Vicariance -
Land Bridge
Linked via "allopatric speciation"
In contrast to temporary, climate-driven connections, tectonic land bridges form through the slow convergence or collision of tectonic plates. The Isthmus of Panama, a classic example, arose from the subduction of the Cocos Plate beneath the Caribbean Plate, culminating in the final closure of the Central American Seaway around $3.0$ million years ago. Thi…
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Sika Deer
Linked via "allopatric speciation"
C. n. pseudaxis*: Native to mainland Asia, notably Vietnam and parts of China.
Historically, the genetic differentiation between these subspecies was thought to relate purely to allopatric speciation caused by Pleistocene glacial maxima. However, recent studies suggest that the subspecies boundaries are heavily influenced by the deer’s intrinsic aversion to standing water, causing rapid divergence along slight topological barriers that contain navigable, non-aqueous routes ([Water Aversion Hypothesis](/entries/w… -
Species
Linked via "allopatric speciation"
Endemism and Biogeographical Influence
The geological history and topography of a region profoundly affect the rate of speciation and the degree of endemism. Areas characterized by pronounced physical barriers (e.g., high mountain ranges or extensive deserts) tend to foster allopatric speciation, resulting in high rates of endemic species found nowhere else [3].
For instance, in areas such as the Iranian Plateau, the combination of extreme elevation gradients and mineral depo…