What is a potential outcome of continental drift on species?

Continental drift refers to the gradual movement of the continents over geological time, which can lead to significant changes in the distribution of landmasses and the separation or collision of various ecosystems. As continents drift apart, populations of species that were once connected can become isolated from one another. This isolation can result in the development of distinct environmental conditions on each landmass, such as differences in climate, habitat availability, and available resources.

As these isolated populations adapt to their unique environments, they may undergo evolutionary changes that lead to new species being formed. This process is known as speciation. Over time, the genetic divergence among these isolated populations can increase, giving rise to a variety of new species that are adapted to their specific habitats.

Therefore, continental drift can facilitate biodiversity by providing opportunities for species to evolve separately and adapt to different ecological niches. This contributes to increased speciation, making it the most appropriate choice regarding the potential outcomes of continental drift on species.