Disjunct populations

Definition

Populations of a species that are geographically separated by an unsuitable habitat or barrier.

Etymology

From Latin 'dis-', meaning 'apart', and 'junct', meaning 'joined'.

Example

The disjunct populations of the California salamander are separated by the Mojave Desert.

Related Terms

• Geographic isolation
• Barriers to dispersal

Usage Notes

Disjunct populations can arise due to historical events, such as climate change or fragmentation of habitat.