Speciation
Geographic or market isolation enables distinctive strategies to develop (firms in different niches can diverge).
Speciation is the process by which populations diverge into separate species. Gene flow opposes speciation by homogenizing populations. Three modes exist: allopatric speciation (divergence in complete geographic isolation), parapatric speciation (divergence with limited gene flow, requiring selection against hybrids stronger than migration), and sympatric speciation (divergence without geographic isolation, requiring strong disruptive selection and assortative mating). Speciation is fastest when Nm = 0, possible when Nm < 1, nearly impossible when Nm >> 1.
Business Application of Speciation
Geographic or market isolation enables distinctive strategies to develop (firms in different niches can diverge). High talent migration and idea diffusion across industries homogenizes practices, making strategic differentiation difficult to maintain - similar to how gene flow prevents speciation.