W13 L2 - Genetics and Evolution Flashcards

Flashcards about key concepts in evolution, covering topics such as the theory of evolution, natural selection, microevolution, macroevolution, and common ancestry.

What is the Theory of Evolution?

Evolution is descent with modification

What are the key aspects of microevolution?

Species change over time.

What is speciation?

Lineages split and diverge.

What is macroevolution?

New life-forms derive from older forms.

What is common ancestry in evolutionary terms?

All life-forms are related.

What is the significance of the Galápagos Islands in the context of evolution?

Darwin observed different species on different islands, leading to his theories on adaptation and speciation.

What is Descent with Modification?

The idea that species change over time (microevolution),

lineages split and diverge (speciation),

new life-forms derive from older forms (macroevolution),

and all life-forms are related (common ancestry).

What is artificial selection?

The process of humans breeding animals and plants for specific traits, demonstrating microevolution.

What are vestigial structures?

Useless or rudimentary body parts that had a function in ancestral species, such as the kiwi's wings or the human tailbone.

What do transitional forms tell us about macroevolution?

Fossils showing a mix of ancestral and novel traits, illustrating the evolution of new forms of life from earlier ones.

What is the concept of biogeography?

The geographic distribution of species, reflecting the history of continental drift and species evolution.

What is anatomical homology?

Similar anatomical structures in different species resulting from common ancestry.

What is molecular homology, and what does it tell us?

Similarities in DNA, RNA, and proteins across different species, reflecting shared ancestry.

What are HOX genes and what is their function?

Regulatory genes that control the timing and route of development. Mutations in these genes can cause rapid and sometimes drastic changes.

What are the four postulates of Natural Selection?

1. Individuals within a population differ.
2. Differences are passed from parents to offspring
3. Some individuals are more successful at surviving and reproducing than others
4. Successful individuals succeed because of traits they inherited

What does fitness mean in terms of Natural Selection?

Individuals that are better at surviving and reproducing.

Does Natural Selection act on individuals or populations?

Natural Selection acts on individuals, but its consequences occur in populations.

Does Natural Selection act on phenotypes or allele frequencies?

Natural Selection acts on phenotypes, but evolution consists of changes in allele frequencies.

Is Natural Selection forward-looking, and does it lead to perfection?

Natural Selection is NOT forward-looking and DOESN’T lead to perfection.

Is natural selection random?

Natural Selection is NONRANDOM, but it is NOT progressive.