An Introduction to Evolution

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary terms related to the introduction to evolution, as discussed in the lecture notes.

Evolution

Results from a heritable change in one or more characteristics of a population from one generation to the next.

Microevolution

Evolution resulting from small genetic variations or mutations within a population over time.

Macroevolution

Evolution that results in the formation of new species or groups of related species.

Natural Selection

The process whereby organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Darwin’s Finches

A group of finch species studied by Darwin that demonstrate natural selection; they evolved distinct beak shapes and sizes.

Survival of the Fittest

A phrase that describes the mechanism of natural selection, where individuals better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce.

Selective Breeding

A human-influenced process where specific animals or plants are bred for desired traits.

Biogeography

The study of the geographic distribution of extinct and living species.

Convergent Evolution

A form of evolution where different species evolve similar traits due to similar environments or niches.

Homology

A similarity between organisms that occurs due to descent from a common ancestor.

Fossils

Preserved remains of past life that provide evidence of evolutionary change.

Molecular Homologies

Similarities in DNA, RNA, and protein sequences between different organisms.

Anatomical Homologies

The comparison of body structures among different species that indicate a common ancestor.

Developmental Homologies

Similarities in development processes and structures among different organisms.

Ecosystem

The interactions of a community of organisms with their physical environment.

Biosphere

The worldwide ecosystem, including all living organisms on Earth and their environments.