Q.Define isolating mechanism and explain its types with suitable examples.

Isolating mechanisms are evolved barriers that prevent closely related species living in the same area from interbreeding, thereby preserving each species' genetic integrity. Prezygotic mechanisms prevent reproductive contact altogether: ecological/habitat isolation (different microhabitats), seasonal isolation (different breeding times), sexual/ethological isolation (different mating calls/behaviour), morphological/mechanical isolation (incompatible genitalia), physiological isolation (gamete incompatibility) and cytological isolation (differing chromosome n …