Evolution - The Evidence IQ4

What is the evidence that supports the Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection?

Comparative Embryology

Structural similarity of embryos suggest that different species are interrelated (via common ancestor). Embryonic development is controlled by DNA

Biogeography

Geographical isolation can lead to the formation of new species as they adapt to different selection pressures

Comparative Anatomy

Homologous structures - similar features found in different species that have been inherited from a common ancestor (may perform different functions) e.g. All mammals share the same arrangement of bones in their forelimbs

Amino Acid Sequencing

The sequence of units that determine protein. Evidence: close correlation would indicate a common ancestor

DNA Hybridisation

The extent to which DNA from two different species will stay connected when heated (e.g. the temp required to seperate chimpanzee and human DNA is 83.6 degrees celsius, indicating a close genetic relationship)

Paleontological Evidence

Fossils give evidence that different life forms have existed in the past, show gradual change in species over time, the sequence of fossils in the rock formations reflects the order of changes observed in species

Relative Dating

Qualitative method of dating (focuses on description rather than numbers). This includes stratigraphy

Absolute Dating

Quantitative method of dating and provides precise estimates of fossils’ age. This include Radiometric dating.

Antibiotic Resistance (modern-day example of evolution)

resistance genes are generated through mutation (at random). Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are more likely to survive

Cane Toads (modern-day example of evolution)

Selection pressures evoked by reproductive competition and new environments favours larger and faster toads that spread more quickly. Therefore spreading and migrating to other states other than QLD