Final answer:
Reproductive isolation is the condition that forms the basis for a species to be reproductively isolated from other members. It occurs when populations of a species become genetically and reproductively independent from each other. Geographic isolation and incompatibility of mating behaviors are two mechanisms that can lead to reproductive isolation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reproductive isolation is the basis for a species to be reproductively isolated from other members. This occurs when populations of a species become genetically and reproductively independent from each other. There are several mechanisms of reproductive isolation, including geographic isolation, where populations are physically separated, and incompatibility of mating behaviors, where individuals have different mating rituals or behaviors. These mechanisms prevent gene flow between populations, leading to the formation of distinct species.