Phyletic speciation
- Pronunciation
- /fai-let-ik spee-see-ay-shun/
- Category
- Evolution
Definition
The evolution of new species from a single ancestral species through gradual accumulation of genetic differences.
Etymology
From Greek 'phyle', meaning 'tribe' or 'lineage', and 'speciation', meaning 'the formation of new species'.
Example
The phyletic speciation of the genus *Heliconius* resulted in a diverse array of butterfly species with different wing patterns.
Related Terms
- Anagenesis
- Divergent evolution