What is the process called when a new species is formed?

The process of forming a new species is known as speciation. This occurs when populations of a species become isolated from each other to the extent that they can no longer interbreed. Over time, these isolated populations may accumulate genetic differences due to mutations, natural selection, genetic drift, and other evolutionary forces. As these differences build up, the populations can diverge enough to become distinct species.

Speciation can happen through several mechanisms, including allopatric speciation (where populations are separated by geographic barriers) and sympatric speciation (where populations are in the same geographic area but become reproductively isolated due to behavioral changes or other factors). Understanding speciation is crucial as it explains the diversity of life on Earth and the processes that drive evolutionary change.

The other options refer to different biological concepts. Selection pertains to the process by which certain traits become more favorable and are passed on due to the advantages they confer in survival or reproduction. Adaptation refers to the changes that improve an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment, typically as a result of natural selection. Mutation signifies the changes in the genetic material that can lead to new traits but are not, on their own, a process of species formation.