Introduction to Evolution

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on key concepts from the lecture on evolution.

Evolution

Process of biological change over time based on the relationship between species and their environments.

Descent with Modification

A principle stating that evolution occurs when there is a change in genetic material within a population over time.

Natural Selection

The process by which certain traits increase in frequency due to those traits allowing individuals to survive and reproduce more effectively.

Mutation

A change in the genetic material that can create variation within a population.

Genetic Drift

A mechanism of evolution where allele frequencies can change due to random sampling effects, especially in small populations.

Gene Flow

The transfer of alleles or genes from one population to another, which can change allele frequencies.

Species

A group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring.

Variation

Differences among individuals within a population, which can affect survival and reproduction.

Survival of the Fittest

The concept that individuals best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Bottleneck Effect

A genetic drift effect that occurs when a population’s size is significantly reduced for at least one generation, leading to a loss of genetic diversity.

Founder Effect

A genetic drift effect that occurs when a small group from a larger population establishes a new population.

Paleontology

The study of fossils and ancient life, providing evidence for the history of evolution.

Adaptation

A trait that enhances the survival or reproductive success of an organism in its environment.

Extinction

The end of an organism or a group of organisms, often resulting from environmental change or failure to adapt.

Speciation

The formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution.

Peppered Moth

An example of natural selection where the frequency of dark-colored moths increased during the industrial revolution due to changes in their environment.