spec-, spic-, spect-, spectat-, spectro- -spectr, -spectful, -spection, -spective

To form or to develop into new biological groups: "The birds that had a common ancestry speciated over many years and evolved into new species that were suited or adapted to their environments."

1. The evolutionary process whereby new species are developed: "With speciation, there is a separation of a population into genetically isolated segments that become recognized as new biological species populations."
2. The emergence of a new biological group in the course of, and as a consequence of, evolution: "Speciation is the formation of a new species. Geographic isolation can lead to genetic isolation within a few generations, as is thought to have occurred with the grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) and the polar bear (Ursus maritimus)."

"Over a period of time, the shuffling and reshuffling of the same genes result in individuals with distinct physical characteristics, vastly different from the individuals from whom they became separated; for example, the polar bear developed a unique coloration and diet as distinct from that of its grizzly cousin."

A reference to the process of biological formation of biological groups: "Biologist have been studying the speciational development of various species of plant and animals for many years."

1. A distinct kind or sort, specifically a group of animals or plants that have common characteristics: "The smallest natural group of animals or plants is considered to be the species."

"Birds are not a species; however, robins are."

"Generally speaking, all members of a species look and behave similarly in all important respects and can breed among themselves."

"Normally, breeding between members of different species does not occur in nature."

2. A group of organisms that is unlike other such groups and which does not integrate extensively with other groups in nature: "A species is generally defined as a group of similar organisms that does not exchange genes with other groups in nature."

"A group of organisms, minerals, or other entities that are recognized as being distinct species from other groups."

1. Something that may be looked at; especially, a plant or an animal: "The specimen Harvey held up was an example of what he was trying to explain."
2. A sample of something that is used for medical-diagnostic analysis: "The doctor asked Karl for a specimen or sample of bodily fluid; specifically, urine which would be used for analysis or diagnosis."

A reference to something that is right or plausible in appearance, but not necessarily the real thing.

1. Something which can be seen or viewed; especially, something of a remarkable, elaborate, or impressive nature.
2. A public performance or display; especially, something on a large or lavish scale.
3. A regrettable public display, as of some kind of bad behavior: "The guy drank so much that he made a spectacle of himself."

1. An optical instrument consisting of a pair of lenses (eyeglasses) for correcting defective vision and a frame which holds those lenses.
2. Lenses set in a frame which holds them in front of the eyes and that are used to correct errors of refraction or to protect the eyes.

The parts of the spectacles are the lenses; the bridge between the lenses, resting on the nose; and the rims or frames, encircling the lenses; plus the sides or temples that pass on either side of the head to the ears.