vicariance

[ vahy-kair-ee-uh ns, vi- ]
/ vaɪˈkɛər i əns, vɪ- /

noun Biology.

the geographical separation and isolation of a subpopulation, resulting in the original population's differentiation as a new variety or species.
Also called vicariance biogeography.

OTHER WORDS FROM vicariance

vi·car·i·ant, adjective, noun

Words nearby vicariance

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Scientific definitions for vicariance

vicariance
[ vī-kâr′ē-əns, vĭ- ]

The separation or division of a group of organisms by a geographic barrier, such as a mountain or a body of water, resulting in differentiation of the original group into new varieties or species. See also speciation.