Ecology
Dispersal
The movement of organisms away from their place of birth to new locations where they may establish. Enables gene flow, colonization of new habitats, and escape from crowded conditions.
Biological Context
Plants disperse seeds via wind, water, or animals. Animals disperse by walking, flying, or swimming. Dispersal ability determines how quickly species can respond to habitat change, colonize new areas, or spread as invasives. Barriers to dispersal create distinct biogeographic regions.
Business Application
In business, dispersal is geographic expansion, new market entry, and talent spreading across organizations. Barriers to dispersal include regulations, cultural distance, and capital requirements.