Evolution by Natural Selection

These flashcards cover key concepts related to evolution by natural selection as discussed in the lecture notes.

Evolution can be defined by Darwin’s phrase __ with modification.

descent

The primary mechanism for evolution according to Darwin is __ selection.

natural

All life on Earth is related because it evolved from a __ ancestor.

common

The study of __ helped to lay the groundwork for Darwin's ideas.

fossils

Carolus Linnaeus interpreted organismal adaptations as evidence that the __ had designed each species for a specific purpose.

Creator

Lamarck hypothesized that species evolve through use and disuse of __ parts.

body

Charles Darwin studied __ at Cambridge University before becoming a naturalist.

theology

Natural selection is a process in which individuals with __ inherited traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

favorable

The history of life is likened to a __ with branches representing life’s diversity.

tree

Adaptations are inherited characteristics that enhance an organism's __ and reproduction.

survival

Genetic variation provides the raw material that __ selection acts upon.

natural

When a selective agent consistently causes differences in survival, it is referred to as a __ pressure.

selection

Natural selection is __ dependent, meaning it can change based on environmental conditions.

context

The __ of Darwin’s finches illustrates natural selection acting on a population under drought conditions.

evolution

Natural selection can only increase or decrease heritable traits that vary in a __.

population