- A The eventual and largely permanent extinction of an already long-established species over time, without forming anything new
- B Formation of new and distinct species from an existing species through the accumulation of differences
- C The gradual domestication and careful selective breeding of wild animals over many generations by humans
- D The broader taxonomic classification and naming system applied generally to already well-known organisms
Correct answer: B. Formation of new and distinct species from an existing species through the accumulation of differences
Explanation: Speciation is the evolutionary process by which new biological species arise. It requires reproductive isolation between populations, allowing independent accumulation of genetic changes until the populations can no longer interbreed. Most commonly occurs through geographic isolation (allopatric speciation).
Concept context
Origin of life, Darwin's theory, natural selection, speciation, and evidence for evolution.