Science - Evolution and Taxonomy

#Sceience

Taxonomy

The classification of organisms based on shared characteristics and evolutionary history.

Phylogenetics

The study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities, often represented by a phylogenetic tree or cladogram.

Homologous structures

Anatomical features with a similar origin but different functions, indicating common ancestry.

Analogous structures

Anatomical features with similar functions but different origins, indicating convergent evolution.

Vestigial structures

Anatomical remnants that were important in the organism's ancestors but are no longer useful.

Fossil Record

Historical sequence of life on Earth revealed through fossils, showing gradual changes and transitional forms.

Genetic variation

Differences in DNA among individuals within a population, essential for evolution.

Natural selection

The process through which individuals with beneficial traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Industrial melanism

Adaptation in which dark-colored variants of species become more common due to environmental changes, such as pollution.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

Reproductive success

The ability of an organism to pass on its genes to the next generation.

Adaptation

A trait that enhances an organism's fitness and survival in a specific environment.