Final answer:
Temporal isolation occurs when species that breed during different times cannot mix their gametes, preventing successful fertilization and gene flow.
Step-by-step explanation:
Temporal isolation is a type of reproductive isolation that occurs when species that breed during different times of the day, different seasons, or different years cannot mix their gametes. This prevents successful fertilization and gene flow between the populations, leading to the formation of separate species over time.
For example, consider two frog species that inhabit the same area. One reproduces from January to March, while the other reproduces from March to May. Since their breeding times do not overlap, they cannot interbreed, and their gametes cannot mix.
This type of isolation can occur due to various factors such as seasonal changes, daylight hours, or mating behaviors. It is an important mechanism for promoting and maintaining biodiversity.