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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British Dictionary definitions for vicariant

vicariant
/ (vɪˈkɛərɪənt, vaɪ-) /

noun

any of several closely related species, races, etc, each of which exists in a separate geographical area: assumed to have originated from a single population that became dispersed by geological events

Derived forms of vicariant

vicariance, noun

Word Origin for vicariant

C20: from Latin vicārius (see vicar) + -ant

Scientific definitions for vicariant

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.