Final Answer:
The term applied to a form of speciation in which one species gives rise to two distinct daughter species is called sympatric speciation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sympatric speciation is a process in which new species evolve from a single ancestral species without the physical separation of populations. This phenomenon occurs in the same geographic area, and it is often associated with the development of reproductive barriers that lead to the formation of distinct daughter species. Unlike allopatric speciation, where geographic isolation plays a crucial role, sympatric speciation relies on other factors such as ecological, behavioral, or genetic differences within a shared habitat.
In sympatric speciation, a key mechanism is disruptive selection, where different forms of a trait are favored over an intermediate form, driving the divergence of populations. This selection pressure can result from various factors like different ecological niches or mating preferences. Over time, individuals with distinct traits become reproductively isolated, leading to the formation of two separate species. This process showcases the dynamic nature of evolution, emphasizing that speciation can occur in diverse ways beyond traditional models of geographic separation.
Understanding sympatric speciation provides insights into the complexity of evolutionary processes, highlighting the diverse mechanisms that drive the emergence of biodiversity. It underscores the importance of ecological and genetic factors in shaping the trajectory of species evolution, enriching our comprehension of the intricate web of life on Earth.