Vicariance Biogeography

Vicariance biogeography is the study of how geographical barriers, such as mountains or rivers, can separate populations of organisms, leading to the development of distinct species over time. This process occurs when a particular event, like the formation of a landmass or climate change, divides a habitat, causing species to evolve independently. Historical biogeography looks at these patterns over time, helping scientists understand how species distributions have changed throughout history due to natural events and shifts in the environment. Overall, vicariance provides insight into the evolutionary history of life on Earth.