Speciation - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

Published

Speciation is the process by which new species are formed. It occurs when groups within a population become so different that they can no longer interbreed to produce fertile offspring. Over time, factors such as mutations, natural selection, and geographical isolation can cause these groups to change in different ways. As genetic and physical differences accumulate, the groups become reproductively isolated, eventually leading to the formation of distinct species. Speciation is a key part of evolution and helps explain the diversity of life on Earth.

Examiner-written GCSE Biology revision resources that improve your grades 2x

  • Written by expert teachers and examiners
  • Aligned to exam specifications
  • Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
GCSE Biology revision resources

Share this article

Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now