Darwinian Evolution Terms and Introduction to the Theory

These flashcards cover key concepts related to Darwinian evolution, including definitions of evolution, natural selection, artificial selection, adaptation, and contributions of significant figures in evolutionary theory.

What is the definition of evolution?

Evolution is the change in genetics (alleles and/or genes) of a population over time.

What is natural selection?

Natural selection is a mechanism for evolution where helpful traits for survival in a specific environment are maintained in a population.

What is artificial selection?

Artificial selection is selective breeding by humans to choose traits they favor in domestic species.

What are Darwin's three principles that allow natural selection to operate?

1) Most characteristics are inherited by offspring. 2) Resources do not support all available offspring surviving; there is competition for resources. 3) Offspring vary between each other for the inherited characteristics they exhibit.

What is adaptation in the context of evolution?

Adaptation is a trait that enables survival and reproduction of an organism at the population level in its current environment.

How did early geologists contribute to Darwinian evolutionary theory?

They proposed that geographic changes occur gradually over long periods, challenging the belief that species were created in a perfect state.

Who independently conceived mechanisms for evolution by natural selection?

Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace.

What was Jean-Baptiste Lamarck's contribution to evolutionary theory?

He proposed an incorrect mechanism for evolutionary change stating that species could change in response to environmental changes and these changes would be passed on to offspring.

What did Darwin observe about finch beak shapes?

Darwin noticed variation in beak shape among different finches and connected these shapes to the food they ate.

What is meant by 'survival of the fittest'?

It refers to the idea that organisms survive and reproduce if their traits allow them to interact successfully with their environment.