Reproductive isolation is a biological concept that prevents different species from interbreeding. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as temporal isolation, where species mate at different times, or behavioral isolation, where differences in mating rituals keep species apart. These barriers help maintain distinct species by ensuring that only individuals of the same species can successfully reproduce. Another form of reproductive isolation is mechanical isolation, which involves physical differences in reproductive structures that prevent mating. Additionally, postzygotic barriers, like hybrid inviability, occur when fertilized eggs do not develop properly. Together, these mechanisms contribute to the process of speciation, where new species arise from existing ones.