Geographic isolation is the physical separation of populations of organisms or species by natural barriers such as mountains, rivers, oceans, deserts, or distance, which prevents interbreeding and interaction between them. This separation can lead to genetic divergence as the populations face different environmental pressures, ultimately resulting in the evolution of new species. Geographic isolation significantly influences species diversity and plays a major role in the process of speciation.
In human contexts, geographic isolation refers to the separation of groups or communities by physical or logistical barriers that limit interaction and connection, often impacting cultural, social, and economic development.
