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n. The division of a widespread group of organisms by a geographic barrier, such as a mountain range or a body of water, often resulting in the evolution of related species on either side of the barrier. [Latin vicārius, substitute (since after a vicariant speciation event, one species can be thought of as "substituting for" a related species on the other side of the geographic barrier); see VICARIOUS + -ANCE.] vi·cari·ant adj. & n. |
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