Evolutionary Biology and Natural Selection

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to evolutionary biology, focusing on natural selection, adaptation, and evidence supporting evolution.

Natural Selection

The process through which species change over time due to variations that enhance survival and reproduction.

Adaptation

Characteristics that increase the chances of survival and reproduction in a specific environment.

Evolution

The gradual change in the characteristics of a species over generations.

Homology

Similarity in characteristics resulting from a shared ancestry.

Speciation

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

Fossil Record

The history of life as documented by fossils, providing evidence for evolution and missing links between species.

Artificial Selection

The process by which humans breed plants and animals for particular traits.

Common Ancestor

A species from which two or more different species have evolved.

Darwin's Theory

The theory proposing that species evolve through a process of natural selection and descent with modification.

Descent with Modification

The principle that each living species has descended, with changes, from other species over time.

Gene Flow

The transfer of genetic material between populations, which can affect evolution.

Paleontology

The study of the history of life on Earth through the examination of plant and animal fossils.

Genetic Variation

Differences in DNA among individuals within a population, which is crucial for natural selection.

Extant Species

Species that are currently living, as opposed to those that are extinct.

Fitness

A measure of an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in its environment.

Observation 1 of Natural Selection

Populations can potentially increase rapidly under ideal conditions.

Observation 2 of Natural Selection

Populations are actually quite stable due to limited resources.

Observation 3 of Natural Selection

Resources in an environment are limited, leading to competition.

Inference 1 of Natural Selection

More individuals are produced than can survive, causing a struggle for existence.

Inference 2 of Natural Selection

Individuals with advantageous traits tend to survive and reproduce more than others.

Inference 3 of Natural Selection

This leads to a gradual change in the traits of populations over time.

Experimental Evolution

The study of evolution in controlled settings, often through laboratory experiments with organisms.

Rapid Evolution

Quick changes in populations often seen in response to environmental pressures, such as pest resistance.

Charles Darwin

Naturalist who formulated the theory of evolution by natural selection.

William Paley

Philosopher known for his argument of design and the idea that complex structures imply a designer.