Define species and identify how species form

Although all life on earth shares various genetic similarities, only certain organisms combine genetic information by sexual reproduction and have offspring that can then successfully reproduce. Scientists call such organisms members of the same biological species.

What You’ll Learn to Do

• Define species and describe how species are identified as different
• Differentiate between types of speciation
• Describe the process of reconnection
• Explain the two major theories on rates of speciation

Learning Activities

The learning activities for this section include the following:

• What is a Species?
• Types of Speciation
• Reconnection
• Rates of Speciation
• Self Check: Speciation